LHC opens new south gallery

The Lutheran Heritage Center in Altenburg officially opened up its new south gallery in a special ceremony Thursday, Oct. 28.
“I’m just honored to welcome all of you here, to welcome not only the elected officials but also the attendees at our conference, the residents of local communities and everybody that considers it important enough to be here tonight,” Warren Schmidt said. “We’re very thankful that you’re here.”
With elected officials from Altenburg, Frohna and Perryville, as well as county commissioners and a state representative on hand, it was an opportunity to recognize the individuals responsible for funding the new addition.
“There have been some very, very generous people who have been involved in helping us build this addition onto our museum which is pretty incredible,” Schmidt said, then mentioned the Degenhardt family.
Degenhardt members in attendance were Pearline Degenhardt, Larry Degenhardt, Lynn Degenhardt, Dewey Degenhardt and Connie Degenhardt Levy.

Once the introductions, speeches and words of blessing were offered, Delbert Schmidt used the large scissors to snip the ribbon and the lights were turned on, giving those in attendance a chance to check out the new expansion.
Initially, it contained artwork compiled by Dan Woodward, a professor from Rolla,
Also featured is a new addition about Capt. Ray Littge, Missouri’s top fighter ace from World War II.
Littge was born in Altenburg. The Littge exhibit is titled “Fearless: The life of Cap. Ray Littge.”
The Lutheran Heritage Center, at 75 Church Street in Altenburg, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week.
The existing museum and educational center has been open since 2005.