Railroads helped OT County grow in early years

By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

The Railway Express Agency is one of this writer’s favorite exhibits at the county museum in Fergus Falls. County residents have a wonderful museum on the west side of Fergus Falls (West Lincoln Avenue) under the banner of the Otter Tail County Historical Society.

This writer is like many county residents who loved to ride the train from Fergus Falls to the Twin Cities and back until 1971 when rail passenger service ceased on the Great Northern route. Others took the Galloping Goose short trains west to Breckenridge or east to towns such as Underwood, Battle Lake and Henning.

The summer season is a good time of year to visit the county museum (Otter Tail County Historical Society) on the west side of Fergus Falls. The exact location is 1110 West Lincoln Avenue, near Van Dyk Park.

The museum opened on the west side of Fergus Falls in 1973 after moving from the basement of the county courthouse just south of downtown Fergus Falls. In 1983 the agricultural wing was added to the building. 

The conceptual work was done by local artist, Charles Beck, who worked with numerous volunteers to create wonderful exhibits.

“Visitors always comment about the size and design of our exhibits,” said Executive Director Chris Schuelke. “Come and see what everyone is raving about.”

Everything is on one floor for easy access. “We can accommodate everyone, from individuals to small groups,” adds Schuelke.

Museum Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturdays June through August, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Research Library: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

For more information call the county museum at (218) 736-6038.