Welcome to Historic Cook County, a community built on creative and resourceful people who made their living from the land and lakes. In this remote frontier, inspiration came from the beauty and bounty of the natural world. Celebrate Cook County’s heritage this September! Become a new or sustaining member offering regular support for the important services they provide to the community.
The Cook County Historical Society was established in 1924, before the road to Grand Marais was completed and during a time when visitors still arrived by steamship or dog sled. Since that time, the organization has fulfilled its mission to collect, preserve and share the history of Minnesota’s northeastern most county.
Historic Cook County, a collection of five sites, weaves together the tales of Cook County’s remarkable past. The Historic Lightkeeper’s House (Cook County Museum) features the stunning Fresnel lens that shined bright in the harbor entrance lighthouse for over 100 years, guiding ships to safety from Lake Superior’s fiercest storms. The community’s artistic legacy is honored at the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery with exhibits created by local artists and inspired by regional beauty. History and art collections (over 25,000 individual items) are temporarily stored at these locations. A major project on the horizon is the construction of a building for proper storage of these priceless artifacts.
The Historic St. Francis Xavier Church at Chippewa City honors the Anishinaabe community that thrived and maintained tradition as history changed their path. The fishing tug NeeGee (“friend” in Ojibwe) and the 1930s replica fish house represent the commercial fishing families who worked hard to make their living on this great lake. Loggers and the like relied on metal workers at the Historic Bally Blacksmith Shop to keep their equipment operational and the economy viable.
Historic Cook County is counting on you! Through the month of September, they’ll be sharing the stories from the past that still stir the imagination. Tune in to WTIP on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the best of “Moments in Time” series, check their website each Tuesday evening to connect to livestreamed interviews with elders sharing their memories, read the Cook County News-Herald for favorite articles from the archives, and like them on Facebook and Instagram to see more photos and stories.
But most importantly, become a member and show your support for local history. Those who become sustaining members or new members this month will be entered in a drawing featuring wonderful prizes from area businesses. Visit www.cookcountyhistory.org/become-a-member
Please, also remember Historic Cook County in your legacy planning. Your bequests can go a long way! This local organization works hard to save and share our cultural heritage. Your support provides financial security for the future of this mission!
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