(ABC 6 News) – Reenacting the emotional homecoming of Tosten Hagen has been a tradition for his ancestor’s family gatherings for the past 17 years.

Tosten Hagen came all the way to Glenville from Norway in 1864, building a modest life for himself and his family in their small cabin just south of Albert Lea. But when he called to join the union effort in the civil war, his family worried day in and day out for his safe return home.

Thankfully that day eventually came as the family altered to his homecoming by their dog. Over a century later, Hagen’s descendants come back here to re-enact that special moment and keep their family history alive.

“We had a wonderful turnout today. This is the most I’ve seen at one of the Hagen reunions. This is just from the Gilbert side and my great grandfather’s side of the family,” said Lonny Hagen, the Great-Great-Grandson of Tosten Hagen.

Vince and Teresa Bergdale played the role of Hagen and his wife Guri in the re-enactment of that momentous day. They do it every year because of how much it means to them to honor Hagen and his family’s sacrifice.

“It’s an honor to do these sorts of things, to keep alive, not just for the family, but for everyone, the service that everyone did during the war,” said Vince Bergdale.

Since the re-enactments of that day began, the family have invited all to come out and witness the moment they cherish so deeply. This year they are thankful the turnout was so large.