Hidden Stories: Welk Homestead Celebrates Milestones - Special Events to Honor Lawrence Welk

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the North Dakota Historical Society's ownership of the Welk Homestead State Historical Site—one of the most unique and culturally rich locations in the state. Once the family farm of America's favorite Champagne Music entertainer, Lawrence Welk, the homestead continues to draw visitors from across the globe who come to explore its deep roots in North Dakota’s pioneer and musical history.

The homestead originally belonged to Ludwig and Christina Welk, who emigrated from the Odessa-Black Sea region of Russia (present-day Ukraine) and settled about a mile north and a mile west of Strasburg in 1893. Together, they raised eight children, including Lawrence, who went on to become one of the most successful entertainers in television history.

Lawrence Welk and his parents spoke little English at the time, and Lawrence left school after fourth grade due to a near-fatal bout of appendicitis. Despite these challenges, his love of music, passed down by his father who played accordion, organ, and fiddle, led him to a lifelong career in entertainment. Welk left Strasburg on his 21st birthday, heading north to Bismarck to form a band, and eventually finding his break in Yankton, South Dakota, when a radio DJ played one of his songs. That led to a television career that launched him into national stardom. Today, The Lawrence Welk Show is one of the longest-running musical programs in television history.

The homestead remained in the Welk family for generations until it was sold by Welk’s nieces, Evelyn and Edna Schwab, to the State Historical Society ten years ago. Evelyn passed away earlier this year, but Edna is still alive today. Their father was Lawrence’s brother, Michael Welk, who worked the land until the 1960s.

Today, the Welk Homestead is more than just a tribute to one man’s musical journey. It’s the only farm the North Dakota Historical Society maintains, giving visitors a firsthand look into the life of early homesteaders and the strong German-Russian heritage that helped shape the state.

To commemorate the 10-year milestone, a variety of events are planned for Sunday, June 1 at the Welk Homestead, including:

Tractor Show Rope and Paper-Making Activity Demonstration on Antique Printing Press Local Vendors Dedication of Lawrence Welk Statue Musical Tribute by Joyful Voices Special Guest Appearance

In addition, the weekend will include the premiere of a new PBS documentary about the homestead, set to air on May 31 at the Heritage Center, along with the release of a new biography titled Lawrence Welk: A North Dakota Legacy by Indiana author Lance Richie. Copies of the book will be available at the event.

None of this would have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the Pioneer Heritage group, a local Strasburg organization that worked tirelessly to restore the homestead to its original condition. Though the group is no longer active, their contributions continue to be felt and appreciated.

The Welk Homestead is open for visitors Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For special tours, you can call the homestead directly or contact the North Dakota Historical Society. Stay up to date by following their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/WelkHomesteadSHS/