’Sound of Music’ emanating once again across Mirror Lake
Ever since the time when Dr. Lloyd and Barb Olson began sharing their beloved land with their family and others, Skonewood Christian Retreat Center has become a haven for those who love to celebrate the beauty of God’s outdoors.
In recent years Skonewood, as it’s lovingly called, rings out with the sound of Christian music each Sunday night during the summer and folks gather to hear their favorite hymns and songs and to celebrate the beauty of God’s Universe as well.
The Coronavirus Pandemic did what damage it could do to the music schedule at Skonewood. But two weeks ago the music was back — and so were the people, eager to hear the sounds that help celebrate their Lord.
Outdoor concerts are held at the pavilion on Mirror Lake situated between Trade Lake and Atlas, nestled about 17 miles Southeast of Grantsburg.
Caretakers Dave and Diane Engstrand welcomed about 70 hearty souls Sunday night to hear the Bluegrass Christian Music of the Roller Family of New Richmond.
Recently descendants of the Olsons spearheaded a drive to build and dedicate a new cabin at Skonewood called, “The Refuge” The name was derived from the fact the center provides a “refuge” to anyone who needs it. There is no charge to stay but donations are accepted.
The Roller Family belted songs at Skonewood on Sunday night.
Sunday night the crowd was slow to gather, but as the Roller family, sporting five singing, playings daughters, their nine-year-old son on vocals and father Dan as the leader of the group, belted out inspirational and patriotic songs to a crowd that seemed anxious to get music and celebration once again ringing across Mirror Lake.
Led by Dan Roller, this group played guitar, fiddle, mandolin, piano, and banjo. And they rallied around their mother Sharon’s song, “We Pray for You Mr. President”.
The Roller Family performs at Skonewood campground.
Weather, and perhaps the pandemic pending, the “Sounds of Music” will likely be heard emanating from Skonewood the rest of the summer.
It’s unlikely Lloyd and Barb would object. They always liked gatherings of family and the sweet sounds of celebration to the Lord emanating from their property. In that regard, nothing has really changed.
Scheduled events at Skonewood include:
July 19-Glory Bound
July 26-Highview
July 26-Highview
Aug. 2-Mystery Mountain Boys
Aug. 9-Mike, Becca & Mary
Aug. 16-John and Kate
Aug. 23-Northern Pines
Aug. 30-Harmonic Balance
Sept. 6-Erin Spohn & Others
(All concerts begin at 6:30 p.m.)