The Spirit of Giving Lives On
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Spirit of Giving: Lars Christianson
Visionary, entrepreneur, businessman, philanthropist — all very fitting words to describe one of the most influential figures in MeritCare's 100-year history, Lars Christianson. He was not only key in establishing Concordia College and First Lutheran Church, but also was a driving force in the birth and early growth of St. Luke's Hospital and the Fargo Clinic. In fact, in 1905 above his drugstore at 10 Broadway, the dream that would become MeritCare was born.
Originally from Norway, Lars traveled to Fargo in 1881 and established himself as a well-respected businessman, druggist and philanthropist who believed strongly in the importance of taking care of the poor, sick and infirmed. On the fateful day in 1905, he united with Drs. Olaf Sand and Nils Tronnes to discuss building a Lutheran hospital in Fargo. The visionary group dreamed of a hospital that would attract the finest doctors and nurses to this bustling community. A place that would set new standards with a commitment to high quality care. A place that would be open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. This meeting of great minds not only sparked the idea that would one day become MeritCare, but ignited an unparalleled, life-long passion and generosity in Christianson.
Throughout the years, Christianson's support — both spiritually and financially —would prove vital to the hospital, clinic and community. When there was a need at St. Luke's or Fargo Clinic and funds were not readily available, Lars never hesitated. When boilers that supplied heat to the hospital and clinic were condemned in 1930 and there was concern about having heat through the winter, Lars loaned the money to replace the boilers. Even after this death in 1946, his legacy continued when his company returned $60,000 it held on the St. Luke's mortgage back to the building fund to continue to serve patients.
Time and time again, Christianson's guidance and support kept the glow of hope alive and the commitment to patients strong. Another early St. Luke's and Fargo Clinic leader, Dr. O.J. Hagen said it best, "Lars has come to the aid of many persons and institutions in his great life, and his name will live through them, give him immortality… St. Luke's Hospital and the Fargo Clinic will stand long after you are gone, Lars, as living monuments to your faith and good will."