In a heartfelt ceremony, the small town of Oklee, Minnesota, gathered to honor the late Coya Knutson, a trailblazer in Minnesota's political history, by renaming its Post Office in her memory. The event was attended by local residents, Knutson's family members, and distinguished guests, including representatives from Congress. The ceremony was a fitting tribute to a woman who broke barriers and left an indelible mark on her community and the state of Minnesota.

Wayne Rolph, Manager of Post Office Operations, delivered a touching speech at the ceremony, stating, "By renaming the Oklee Post Office to the Coya Knutson Post Office, we pay tribute to her for leaving a legacy of breaking barriers for women in politics and championing causes such as student loans, cystic fibrosis research, and support for Minnesota's farmers. Coya Knutson’s name will now grace this building as a constant reminder of what it means to be an outstanding public servant."

Coya Knutson, born Cornelia Gjesdahl in 1912 on a farm in Edmore, North Dakota, was the first woman from Minnesota to serve in the United States House of Representatives. Her journey began after earning a degree in education from Concordia College in 1934 and briefly pursuing opera at Juilliard. She eventually returned to the Midwest, settling in Oklee, Minnesota, where she married Andy Knutson, taught school, and ran a small hotel. Her passion for public service led her to local politics in the 1940s, and she served in the Minnesota state legislature from 1950 to 1953.

In 1954, Knutson launched a grassroots campaign for Congress, successfully winning a seat as a representative for Minnesota's Ninth District. Her independent spirit and dedication to agricultural issues quickly earned her a reputation in Washington. Her contributions to public service, particularly in areas like student loans, cystic fibrosis research, and support for Minnesota's farmers, have left a lasting legacy. Coya Knutson passed away in 1996, but her influence continues to be felt in her hometown and beyond.

As the ceremony concluded, there was a palpable sense of pride and remembrance among those in attendance. The newly renamed Coya Knutson Post Office now stands as a testament to a remarkable woman whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations in Oklee and across Minnesota.

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