The steps face west. This is certainly a sacred spot in my life. Two sets of grandparents were instrumental in building it; I was baptized and confirmed here. Have brothers, a parent, grandparents, and many relatives that are interred in the cemetery.There was a time that the services were conducted in Finnish, men seated on one side, women and children on the other. For a time the services were first done in Finnish, and then in entirety, in English; it was a long sit for a child. But not unpleasant as the cakes and coffee were waiting in the basement.
I once read in the South Dakota Magazine that this is the most photographed church in South Dakota. I don't doubt that. This photo doesn't show the McKenzie Butte to the east, nor the other surrounding land marks, but it is a wonderful spot. And yes, one of our dark night sky treasures.
