In 1870 Rev. B.M. Halland and the Mamrelund Congregation in Stanton set aside this farmstead of 240 acres to provide a home for children in need. From 1881 to 1938, the Stanton Lutheran Children's Home provided a loving haven for over 400 children. It was one of the first providers of social services for the Lutheran Church in the state and became the root of the continuing ministry of Lutheran Social Service of Iowa.