About Us
Our Purpose
The St. David's Society of Minnesota was formed to preserve the heritage and culture of the Welsh immigrants to Minnesota.
Singing
One of the Welsh traditions is that of singing hymns in four part harmony. This is the focal point of the annual Spring Gymanfa Ganu. Many of the hymns are sung in Welsh.
Merry Evening
The Noson Lawen [Merry Evening] is a Welsh tradition where those in attendance engage in impromptu performances, such as singing, playing a musical instrument, or continuing the ancient tradition of Welsh Bards of story telling.
A Cup of Tea
The Christmas Tea is another occasion for part singing, featuring Christmas Carols sung both in English and in Welsh.
Banquet
The Patron Saint of Wales is remembered through the annual St. David’s Day banquet, typically on a Saturday closest to St. David’s Day, which is on March 1. In addition to the meal and singing, there is a program with an emphasis on Welsh heritage.
In 2011 a performance of the Dylan Thomas play for voices, Under Milkwood, was presented. In 2010 Lord Dafydd Wigley, M.P. of Caernarfon, Wales addressed the Society and talked about recent changes in Wales.
Fall Event
In the fall there is often an event that emphasizes the Welsh influence in Minnesota.
Annual Meeting
The annual meeting includes in recent years, a picnic or potluck meal, and includes an annual report on the activities of the Society, including a financial report and the election of officers. Sometimes there is also a short educational program pertaining to Welsh history or culture.
Fundraising
Many years ago the Society published a history of the Society and of the Welsh in Minnesota. In 2006 the Society published a new edition of that history. As a fund-raising effort and to promote awareness of Welsh heritage, the Society sells items such as tote bags, shirts and magnetic ribbons with a logo of the Welsh Red Dragon.
National Sponsor
On several occasions the Society has served as the local host sponsor for an annual nationwide gathering of those who treasure Welsh culture and heritage, formerly called the National Welsh Gymanfa Ganu and now called the North American Festival of Wales. Minneapolis has been chosen as the host site for the 2014 NAFOW, to be held on August 28 - 31, 2014.
Further details of the activities of the Society can be found in copies of the Society’s Newsletter.