It’s amazing to realize that it has been 50 years since Lawrence officially received the incredibly generous gift of Björklunden Vid Sjon from Winifred and Donald Boynton. The Boyntons bequeathed Björklunden with its 425 acres of wooded land along Lake Michigan to Lawrence knowing that their vision for this site remaining a place of meditation, contemplation, and education was assured.
Indeed, for 50 years, Lawrence has continued to honor this vision of the Boyntons in several different ways. Besides the summer and fall seminars for life-long learners exploring an incredibly wide range of subjects, the surrounding grounds have always been open to the public. Hiking trails are well-marked, and visitors can absorb the myriad of natural wonders of their surroundings. Winifred and Donald’s Chapel of Peace inspired by traditional Norwegian stave kirkes has continued to remain open for public tours during the summer and as a place for spiritual exploration. During the academic school year, the facility is well-used every weekend by Lawrence students along with their professors for unique and more intimate learning experiences away from the Appleton campus.
The 50-year milestone of Björklunden becoming Lawrence University’s northern campus will be celebrated in a variety of ways. All Lawrentians, Friends of Björklunden, and Door County residents are invited to attend two free concerts:
On Thursday, August 7, at 3:30 p.m., we partner with the Door County Jazz Festival and Lawrence University’s Conservatory to offer Jazz in Vail Hall. As part of this week-long festival, we feature top Lawrence University students performing in their home venue on north campus. This event observes the 150th anniversary of Lawrence’s Conservatory of Music as well as Björklunden’s 50th.
Then on Wednesday, August 15th, 4 p.m., Katie Dahl and Friends will perform. Eric Lewis and Rich Higdon join Katie for their second show on the Chapel Green as part of Björklunden Community Concerts by the Lake series. Savor BBQ food truck will also be there.
The Katie Dahl and Friends bring music to the birch grove on the water.
Björklunden will host its annual Gala on Saturday, August 9 beginning at 1 p.m. Friends of Björklunden who are Boynton Society members are invited to enjoy a variety of mini-seminars, musical performances, and a reception. The 50th anniversary will be a major focus. Please watch for an invitation in your email inbox.
If you are not yet a Boynton Society donor, please consider joining by contributing $250 per household. You can make your contribution by calling 920-832-6548 or giving online.
Mark your calendars now and watch for more details and new events to follow. We are looking forward to seeing you all soon!
