In May of 1989, the Community Club made the decision to move Uffda Day to the first weekend in October and planning began. The event would also be part of the Rutland State Centennial Celebration on Sunday, October 8, 1989. Events actually began on Saturday evening with a potluck supper at the Hall. The Centennial Chorus from Rutland, South Dakota, entertained the supper crowd with several old favorites. They were followed by a medley of songs from the Norwegian musical team of Arneson and Lindbo then entertained with dance music old and new.
The lead off event on Sunday was the parade which consisted of nearly 50 units. Despite chilly temperatures, a large crowd was on hand to enjoy a good time in Rutland. A World War II AT-6 trainer fly-over by local aviator Rodney Erickson and his boss, Steve Weatherby of Weatherby Ag Services, spearheaded the parade which was led by the Rutland, South Dakota, High School band.
Craft booths, food stands and other exhibits all reported a brisk business. Many Uffda Day visitors were impressed by excellent displays in the Depot Museum, Pioneer House and Country School. More than 2,000 lefse was made and sold out 3/$1.75 or fresh off the grill for 50 cents, 20 gallons of rommegrot was prepared
At the Community Club meeting following Uffda Day, the Uffda Day Chairpersons Doris Hoistad, Hal Nelson and Lori McLean delivered their report on the event. There was discussion as to whether the event would continue to be held and changing it to just one day, either Saturday and Sunday. The vote was taken and was overwhelmingly in favor of having the event again in 1990 and to have it on Sunday “as in the past”.
rutlandramblings 