Small towns across the US offer a unique charm and sense of community that is hard to find elsewhere. Roseau is no exception. With its quaint Main Streets, friendly faces, and tight-knit neighborhoods, we exude warmth and hospitality. Roseau residents appreciate that life moves at a slower pace here, allowing for genuine connections and a break from the hustle and bustle of life. It’s a place to enjoy nature, neighbors, and of course small town events like the Roseau Fall Festival.
The Cenex Hometown Throwdown Grand Prize is rewarded to bolster events and give the community opportunities to bring talent and resources for enrichment and growth. Visit the Go Roseau Facebook and leave an idea on events you might like.
Now, as the town stands on the brink of potentially securing the grand prize, the spotlight turns to the nation as citizens across America are called upon to cast their votes to support Roseau’s victory bid.
The voting is open. It’s an opportunity for every American to rally behind Roseau, demonstrating the power of smalltowns everywhere!
Come join us the first week in October for the Roseau Fall Harvest Festival. The events are free and so is the fun! Watch the first ever, giant pumpkin boat contest on the Roseau River. This is your invitation to see why we are a finalist in the BEST Hometown Throwdown!
The Hoist and Derrick was patent #1. It was the power of innovation that led to many rural developments. You might be asking what a hoist and derrick is and why this was important at the beginning of Polaris. Let’s take a trip back to 1944. Most of rural America was without power. Installing powerlines was a difficult job, requiring the manpower of 6-8 men to lift and set a pole. Local electric cooperatives were eager to get power to the rural residents but not nearly as enthusiastic as the residents were. Edgar Hetteen, the Polaris co-founder, had an idea that later led to the company’ of Polaris’s birth in Roseau, MN.
This is the story of Hoist and Derrick | Patent #1 | Polaris and how Edgar Hetteen’s invention changed the companies history.
The Early 1940's -Times were Changing Opportunity was EVERYWHERE
Innovation was powering change. The rural landscape was transforming. Electrical lines were being constructed to provide power.
Roseau County had about 3,000 rural families without electricity when Rural Electrification was established in 1936.
The first photo was featured in the Roseau Times Region newspaper in November 1937 when a REA crew did the early pole setting. The City of Roseau’s light plant was updated, and the proposed larger power unit was installed. The contract was for $47,000.
The Invention of the Hoist and Derrick | Patent #1 | Polaris Co-Founder Edgar Hetteen
Edgar Hetteen of Roseau, Minnesota watched, listened, and thought as the changes were occurring across the United States.
Poles along a country road, waiting for the wiring to link homes to electricity in Stearns County.
He was particularly interested in the rural changes in Minnesota and his home county. Edgar realized there was a need to construct hoists and derricks to place utility poles in the ground.
Edgar Hetteen in 1939.
He had an idea!
With the power of innovation, electricity was being introduced to rural Minnesota.
This photo, captured in November 1944 by the Roseau Electric Cooperative, depicts a significant moment: the Roy Bloom farm in Moranville Township became the first farm in Roseau County to have electrical power supplied by REA. Pictured from left to right are August Bourque, the first manager of REA; Henry Jenson, the inaugural president of the board of REA; Roy Bloom; Mildred Bloom; and Milan Bloom.
The first farm in Roseau County to receive electrical was the Roy Bloom Family in 1944 in Moranville Township.
Military Service and the Draft: WWII
The Navy filled its ranks with volunteers until early 1943.
In 1944, during World War II, Edgar Hetteen and David Johnson were drafted and served in the United States Navy.
Allan was a freshman in the Roseau High School system.
WWII Draft List, May 1944 showing Edgar E. Hetteen's name.
The Navy filled its ranks completely with volunteers until early 1943. Graphic image of sailors courtesy Northwestern University Library
David Johnson, U.S. Navy 1944-1946. He served on the LSM 339 in China. He sent $11/month from his navy salary to help the company financially, thus becoming the 2nd partner.
Edgar Hetteen
Allan Hetteen, a student at Roseau High School, Roseau, MN
Edgar was honorably discharged early because of a physical condition. At the age of twenty-four, he established Hetteen Hoist & Derrick in 1944. Using his recent patent design, his experience, and other resources, he worked to expand the business. Soon, other products, such as straw choppers, steel boat trailers, and field sprayers, were designed and manufactured at the company.
Edgar Hetteen's Electric Hoist Unit capable of lifting two tons on single line, and five tons or more on triple line
David Johnson turned 21 years while in the United States Navy, stationed in China helping to decommission U.S. ships that were being turned over to China. David received a letter from Edgar Hetteen, stating he had established a business that made straw-chopping equipment for farm combines and pole-hoisting machines for the electrical cooperatives. He required financial assistance.
David immediately became a part of the company by sending eleven dollars per month from his Navy salary of twenty-one dollars per month.
In 1946, David was discharged from the Navy. He returned to Roseau and promptly began working together with Edgar. They concentrated on product engineering and manufacturing.
The Hetteen Hoist and Derrick Building
Following Allan’s 1948 graduation from Roseau High School, Allan had wanted to purchase a gravel truck. His older brother Edgar told him, “No! You’re coming to work for me.” After some thought, he agreed to work at the Hetteen Hoist and Derrick Company. In 1950 Allan borrowed $2,000 from his father-in-law Albert Erickson to become partners with Edgar, and Edgar’s brother-in-law David Johnson.
Announcement of the 1944 Patent Edgar received on an electric hoist unit, powered from the 6-volt car, or truck battery.
In 1950 with Allan’s added partnership, a business of car salvage and car repairs was brought into the company. Allan was known for his knowledge, mechanic skills, fabricating, and welding.
In the photo above he is working on a crankshaft while it’s still in the vehicle.
This is the History of Polaris - How power fueled innovation.
The three men were planners looking at the future, entrepreneurs, and jack of all trades. Above all they were risk takers who believed their future would be changed by design and innovation. Now you know the story of the Hoist and Derrick, meet the founders, and learn when, why and how.
Follow along as the journey takes us down the road from Hoist and Derricks to Powersport domination. The history is here so join us for the ride back in time.
David Johnson, Allan Hetteen, and Edgar Hetteen inspecting a spreader their company was manufacturing in the 1950s
A Gnome’s Magical Christmas Adventure: Lights of Yesteryear
‘Tis the season when the temperature is crisp, and the scent of evergreen and Christmas cookies wafts through the air. My name is Roman the Gnome, and I’m about to embark on an adventure in Roseau, MN. Today, I woke with a need to explore and a heart full of curiosity. While having coffee at Nelson’s Cafe, I overheard a gentleman talking about an old village that transforms into a winter wonderland every Christmas. He spoke of sparkling lights, nostalgic decorations, and a timeless charm that could warm the coldest hearts.
Arriving at the village, I was greeted by the soft crunch of snow beneath my gnome-sized boots and the faint jingle of sleigh bells in the distance. The narrow boardwalks were lined with rustic cottages, their roofs adorned with a thick layer of glistening snow. My excitement grew as I turned the corner and was met with a breathtaking sight – the entire village shining with a mesmerizing display of Christmas lights.
The buildings were adorned with strings of twinkling fairy lights that danced merrily in the chilly night breeze. Each storefront boasted a unique decorations display, ranging from classic wreaths to intricately crafted wooden ornaments. The warm golden glow spilled from windows, inviting passersby to peek inside and catch a glimpse of the festive interiors.
One particular building caught my eye – a quaint city hall with a chimney puffing gentle plumes of smoke. Its windows were framed with candles, casting a soft, flickering light that added to the enchantment of the scene. Giant Christmas bulbs and multi-colored lit greenery invited me in. I particularly liked the decorations – snow-covered pinecones and tiny, hand-painted figurines depicting scenes of joy and merriment. The table was set for guests with trays of cookies and steaming hot cocoa. I was surprised to see a round fellow dressed in a red suit similar to my attire. When he laughed, his belly shook like a bowl full of jello. Small children were laughing and whispering in his ear. It seemed a jolly celebration.
The village square served as the center of the festive magic. A towering Christmas tree made from a windmill stood proudly in the center. The air was filled with the sweet melody of carolers singing timeless tunes, their voices harmonizing with the soft rustle of evergreen branches and the creaking of the windmill as they whirled in the wind. The Christmas lights sparkled in a dazzling array of colors, casting a warm and inviting glow on the snow.
I couldn’t resist joining the festivities. As I explored the village, I encountered friendly townsfolk dressed in cozy winter attire, their rosy cheeks aglow with the spirit of Christmas. Children laughed and played in the snow, ice skating, building snowmen, and engaging in spirited snowball fights. The aroma of an outside fire and hot cocoa wafted through the air, adding to the enchantment. I jumped on the hay wagon and rode through the village past Candy Cane Lane, the barn with baby Jesus, and the outdoor ice skating rink. This was pure holiday magic.
As the night unfolded, I was captivated by the simplicity and timelessness of the village’s Christmas celebration.
The beauty of the lights, the laughter of the people, and the sense of community filled my gnome-sized heart with joy. In that moment, I realized that the magic of Christmas is not just in the twinkling lights or the festive decorations – it’s in the shared moments of warmth and togetherness that make this season truly special.
With a heart full of gratitude and cherished memories, I bid farewell to the old village, knowing its timeless charm would stay with me forever. As I disappeared into the wintry night, I couldn’t help but carry a piece of that magical Christmas spirit with me, eager to share the tale of my whimsical adventure with gnomes far and wide.
Nights of Lights is a free event open to all. Please plan to attend and join us in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. For lodging, visit our website at https://goroseau.com/lodging/. Don’t forget your ice skates!
A Trailblazer for Working Women and Polaris Industries
Introducing Gertie Hetteen!
The Amazing First Lady of Polaris
If Allan Hetteen was the first President of Polaris Industry, then his wife Gertie was the First Lady.
“Soon I learned there was somethingvery special about him.” stated Gertie Hetteen after she met Allan Hetteen, future President of Polaris Industries, while attending Roseau High School.
Gertie Erickson, a vivacious, freckled-face child of dairy farmer Albert Erickson and his wife Esther, was born March 30, 1930. The family lived in Falun Township approximately 20 miles from Roseau, Minnesota. Gertie attended a one-room, one-teacher country school until she graduated from the eighth grade. She attended Roseau High School in Roseau, Minnesota, graduating in 1948.
In 1954, Allan, his brother Edgar Hetteen, and his childhood friend David Johnson founded
Polaris Industries.
To learn more about Polaris’s history and how it started, open this blog lin
David Johnson, U.S. Navy 1944-1946. He served on the LSM 339 in China. He sent $11/month from his navy salary to help the company financially, thus becoming the 2nd partner.
Allan Hetteen
At the age of thirty-one Allan Hetteen became President of Polaris Industries in 1960. After a controversial promotional tour across Alaska, his brother, Edgar Hetteen left Polaris and later founded Arctic Enterprises, which would eventually become one of Polaris’ major rivals, Arctic Cat.
During Hetteen’s tenure, he led a 10-year period paving the way for Polaris’ success into the 21st century.
If Allan was the President of Polaris, that made his wife Gertie Hetteen the First Lady of Polaris. A position she worked long and hard at while making it all seem effortless.
In the 1960s, cultural changes were altering the role of women in American society. More females than ever were entering the paid workforce! Through Gertie’s efforts, she made a difference in many people’s lives. Her commitment to building a business, creating, and designing quality products and initially hiring women had an impact in the northern Minnesota rural community economically.
Gertie was the founder of Northern Upholstery, and partner with her husband in establishing several businesses such as Amco, Inc., Gallant Outdoor Apparels in a time when not many women were in leadership roles in the work force let alone to have the initiative in starting up new companies which would employ many people. The love these two people had for one another, their family, and others is evident in many aspects of their lives. Their faith in God was strong!
With Gertie and Allan’s combined talents and strengths, many people, industries, small businesses, and communities became stronger as well. People and communities experienced growth, unity, self-confidence growth, pride and financial security.
Please join in as we focus on, and share some of Gertie’s journey.
A baby girl is God's way of saying,
"I thought you could use a lifelong friend."
Alma Gertrude Erickson was born on March 30, 1930. She grew up on a farm in Falun Township in Roseau County, Minnesota. She didn’t care for her first name, so her parents, Esther and Albert, called her Gertrude or Gertie. Gertie attended a one-room school in Falun until the eighth grade, transferring to Roseau High School her freshman year.
While attending high school as a freshman, she met a shy, tall, handsome classmate named Allan Hetteen. Allan Hetteen was soon to be a name that would forever be associated with Polaris Industries—a company he co-founded in 1954.
Alma Gertrude Erickson, born March 30, 1930.
Gertrude as a toddler was always ready to blaze a trail to start the day with gusto!
Gertie’s elementary school photo.
Gertie and Allan became friends much to the dismay of Allan. His wish was to date her as a girlfriend, but Gertie had other ideas. They did hang out together with a group of friends for several years. Finally, much to Allan’s delight, she FINALLY said yes to go on a date with him! The couple drove to Crookston to a softball game…with four of Allan’s friends.
Gertie wrote in her memories about her husband Allan,
“Soon I learned there was somethingvery special about him.We attended different churches with our families. Allan eventually invited me to the Young People activities at his church. He worked with first grade boys and would take “his boys” out to the Malung School to play games on the softball field.Sometimes I went with BUT the first-grade boys wanted Allan’s fullconcentration to pitch the softball rather than having him pay attention to some silly girl!”
A look of a First Lady and her Husband
Her 1948 Roseau High School graduation portrait and Allan in his courting suit looking very presidential
Allan Eldore Hetteen was born on July 17, 1929 to Mae and Emanuel Emanuel on a dairy farm in Malung Township, Roseau County, Minnesota. He had a brother, Edgar, nine years older.
Allan moved with his family to Roseau, Minnesota when he was in elementary school.
Allan enjoyed the outdoors, taking photographs, being involved in his church, working with the youth, and working off and on in his older brother’s shop. He graduated from Roseau High School in 1948. He met and fell in love with a freckled-face, beautiful classmate. He loved her radiant smile from the moment he met her.
Allan as a young man, loved being outside. He did not like his picture taken on that day!
As a teenager Allan loved to take outdoor photos.
Allan waited patiently for Gertie almost two years! Patience is a virtue as finally they were a couple!
Allan’s graduation portrait from Roseau High School in 1948.
Gertie and Allan continued dating after graduation. “Hey Gertie! Who is the shy one now!?!” He eventually proposed.
Of Course she said, “YES!
Gertie would eventually become a trailblazer in the business world, but first and most of all she was a passionate, loving wife and mother!
In 1949 ...."Goin' to the chapel and we're gonna get married! Goin' to the chapel and we're gonna get married! Gee, I really love you..."
Allan Hetteen married Gertrude Erickson on September 3, 1949, in Roseau, Minnesota.
Here is their Christmas card sent to Allan’s brother Edgar and family.
Shown below is a photo of their first home together.
Their first home was 16′ x 6′ trailer.
Allan stood six-feet 3 inches tall. The only place he could stand straight up was with his head in the vent located in the middle of the trailer.
Gertie stated in her Memoria, “It was so cold in the winter the blankets and sheets would freeze to the wall.
Nine months later, the trailer was gone!
The First Home of Allan and Gertie’s!
Join us next week to find out what the future “Power Couple” are up to and why Gertie is called “The First Lady of Polaris and a “Trailblazer”?
Polaris industries started in 1954 building snowmobiles,70 years later has grown to be a global powersport leader. Learn more about the journey to the top here….
The 1960’s brought the design of the legendary snowmobiles including the Polaris Comet, Super Pacer, and Mustag. These machines were designed for extreme speed and with competition in mind.
“A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song. ” Chinese Proverb
January 23, 2024
Winter in Roseau brings about a unique and serene experience for birdwatchers.
As the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, it becomes a haven for various bird species that thrive in colder months. If you can take the cold, there is no better time to see birds than in the winter when the trees have lost their leaves and there is less to hide in. Grab your binoculars, bundle up, and let’s explore the enchanting world of winter bird watching in Northwestern Minnesota.
Top Places to Winter Bird Watch in Roseau, County
Hayes Lake State Park
Ditch Banks and fields on Hwy 89 and County Roads near farm fields
Pine to Prarie Trail
5 Commonly Seen Winter Birds in Roseau County
Common Redpoll (Acanthis flammea) or Winter Finches
One of the highlights of winter bird watching in this region is the appearance of the Common Redpoll. These small finches, adorned with a crimson cap on their heads, create a vibrant contrast against the snow-covered backdrop. Look for them in coniferous forests and open fields like the Beltrami State Forest area and open farm fields, where they often gather in flocks adding a burst of color. Other finches that are common in Roseau are the yellow finch which frequents the bird feeders. A common redpoll eats up to 42% of its body mass every day. They harvest seeds from birch, alder, willow, and pine trees but appreciate an easy meal at a feeder.
Snowy Owl (Babo Scandiacous):
A true symbol of a cold winter region, the Snowy Owl is a majestic bird that occasionally graces Roseau County in the winter months. Their snow-white plumage blends seamlessly into the winter surroundings. Seeing this beauty is a sight to behold. Keep your eyes open when passing open fields and farmland. They often sit on a light poll or high in a tree hunting prey. Last winter, passing traffic was lucky to see the same owl perched on a light pole on Hwy 11 east of Roseau. It was as if it had scheduled arrivals, he came nightly between 4:30-6:00 PM. His view was a stunning sunset to the west and fine dining to the east across the snow-covered field.
Blue Jays and Pileated Woodpeckers
Blue Jays and Woodpeckers add a brightness of color to the white winter landscapes of Minnesota. The coldest of days seem to be no bother for these birds that can often be seen dining at a suet feeder on the frostiest bitter cold days. The pileated woodpecker is the largest living woodpecker in North America. It is nearly three times taller than the petite Downy Woodpecker. What’s neat about the Blue Jay is the population shift in preparation for the winter cold. The birds you see in the winter may not have been the ones present in the summer months. Some of these Jays will be travelers from northern territories and some of the summer Blue Jays will move a bit south.
Our residents are lucky to have a local professional photographer with a passion for photographing this majestic bird. Heather Morey has shared images that help us understand the bird and bring it up close for rarely-seen viewing.
Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
The resilient Black-capped chickadee is a year-round resident of Roseau County, bringing cheer to birdwatchers even in the coldest months. Recognized by its distinctive black cap, this bird makes a sweet song that sounds like it’s saying its name chick-a-dee -dee-dee. These small birds are a delight to watch flitting around in search of seeds or insects during the summer months. If you have a wooded area with a bird feeder, it is easy to attract these lively characters for your viewing pleasure.
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Northern Minnesota’s frozen farm fields, lakes, and rivers become prime hunting grounds for the Majestic Bald Eagle during winter. As opportunistic scavengers, Bald Eagles soar through the skies scanning for small prey like rabbits and mice. Often a group of eagles, known as a convocation, can be spotted along the ditch banks dining on frozen road kill like deer. Eagle’s nests can be seen from the rural roads, where their carefully constructed homes stand out from the rare leaved trees. These nests can measure 5-6 feet wide and 2-4 feet deep. Witnessing the impressive wingspan of these iconic birds against a wintry backdrop is a breathtaking experience that epitomizes the beauty of winter bird watching.
Minnesota Bird Fun Fact for the Birdwatcher
The yellow finch that lives in Minnesota year-round can often be missed in winter months. The male bird who is yellow molts its feathers in the winter for better camouflage making it resemble a close likeness to the more drab female bird. Making many birdwatchers think the yellow finch is missing in action.
And when we are discussing winter birds, we cannot leave out the partridge in the pear tree. It’s more like an apple or juneberry tree but they are a fun winter sight.
