Rev. Hoeger began the school in the Library, the smallest of the three buildings. The school opened in 1932 with eight students, one in high school and the others in lower grades. Dorthea Olson was the first teacher and matron. Leland S. Burgum became the principal and business manager.

By 1937, there were 36 students enrolled: ten in a four-year high school curriculum and 26 in trade, junior high school, and lower grades.

For more information about the school, please continue here.

Fargo, North Dakota

Good Samaritan Institute

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The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society was founded by Reverend August "Dad" Hoeger in 1922. The Society opened a home for "aged cripples and epileptics" at Arthur, North Dakota. In 1927, an Old People's Home was started in Fargo. Similar facilities were opened in other states.

Rev. Hoeger had long envisioned a school for the handicapped and in 1932 he was approached concerning the abandoned buildings of Fargo College which had closed in 1922. After lengthy negotiations, terms were reached with the Fargo College trustees on August 1, 1932. The Society agreed to purchase the facilities of Fargo College for $70,000. On November 7, 1932, the Good Samaritan Institute, a combined hospital, home, and school for "normal minded cripples."

Good Samaritan Institute (former Fargo College)

Rev. Hoeger