New exhibit on display through the end of the year

By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

A resorts exhibit, with wonderful photos from previous decades, in on display through the end of the year at the county museum on the west side of Fergus Falls. The  museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday with Saturday hours June through August.

“Many resorts in Otter Tail County started out as places for tent camping when fishing and hunting were the primary draw,” said County Museum Executive Director Chris Schuelke. “Resorts have changed and adapted over time.”

The county museum falls under the banner of the Otter Tail County Historical Society. “Our staff and volunteers have put together another outstanding exhibit that explores the impact of resorts throughout the county,” Schuelke said.

One of the displays includes Dunn’s Lodge which was a popular destination for tourists north of Pelican Rapids. The resort was owned by Roy Dunn who also served in the Minnesota State Legislature.

Dunn and his staff lured guests with advertisements which said, “We will leave nothing undone to provide each of our guests with a cordial welcome. We will provide courteous service and pay attention to every detail to help make your stay with us pleasant to the fullest extent possible.”

During most of the years in the 20th century Minnesota was mostly a vacation land during the summer months. In recent years resorts in Otter Tail County and other areas of Minnesota have worked to attract visitors all four seasons of the year.

“The goal of resort owners was to encourage people to escape the every day routine of work and home life and to celebrate the waterside paradise here in Otter Tail County,” Schuelke added.