This Cook County Historical Society photo is from “Louis Friedheim’s collection.” It appears to be Justine Kerfoot of Gunflint Lodge guiding a tour group. See more old sled dog photos at the Small Talk at the Historical Society museum on Saturday, Jan. 22 at 3:00 p.m.
In January, the Cook County Historical Society Museum focuses on the history of dog sledding. Educational posters on loan from the Grand Portage National Monument are on display, showing early Native American uses of dog sleds, and a Small Talk is scheduled for 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22. The talk features a panel of experienced and knowledgeable dog sledding enthusiasts:
Tim White began racing dogs in the mid 1970s and found great success, winning races all over North America. Soon after, he became deeply interested in the more traditional, early uses of sled dogs. He now travels the world to share that history and promote the sport.
Beth Drost Gagnon has deep dog sledding roots. She has trained and handled dogs for her father, who was a musher even before she was born, and their family used dogs for winter travel around Grand Portage area for years.
Arleigh Jorgenson was one of the first people to come to Cook County specifically to race dogs and has been influential to those who have followed. He and his family remain active today with his Sled Dog Adventures business. His son Odin carries on the racing tradition.
Bruce Kerfoot grew up on the Gunflint Trail. Existing without a plowed road in the winter, his family depended on sled dogs for travel. Checking trap lines, hauling trees out of the woods, or making an occasional social call required a team of willing dogs.
A slide show of the Historical Society’s photos on the subject will be available for viewing before the talk. The museum invites everyone to this free event in its new addition at 8 South Broadway.
Do you have an old picture or a story from years gone by that you would like to share with Cook County News-Herald readers? Give us a call, or stop by our Grand Marais office. We’d love to hear your Historical Reflections. Call (218) 387-9100; e-mail starnews@boreal.org; or stop by our office at 15 First Avenue West.
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