Gilbertson Baseball Field

Gilbertson Baseball Field
Hey guys, it’s Roman the Gnome, and I am coming to you today with another one of Roseau’s greatest attractions.

As you all know, Roseau is known for its rich hockey tradition and because of this, the historic Memorial Arena is one of the most iconic attractions in Roseau. A lot of people know the location of the arena but what many people do not know is that there is a hidden gem located right next door. The Gilbertson Baseball Field is located just 100 steps north of the Memorial Arena and is a classic baseball field that perfectly encapsulates America’s favorite pastime. The field is home to a variety of levels of baseball in Roseau, ranging from seventh graders all the way to the high school baseball team, the Roseau Rams. The atmosphere I felt when I walked into the entrance was a warm, hometown feel that got me excited to watch a baseball game. 

Gilbertson has a very welcoming feel that includes a green and yellow arched sign as you walk into the ballpark. Along with the grand entrance to the ballpark, there is beautiful scenery throughout the complex. As I entered the park, I was greeted by my favorite thing in the world- food. The concession stand is located right next to the entrance to the ballpark and features a classical selection of ballpark food. I ordered myself a hot dog and cheeseburger before taking a look around the field. The more I looked at this field, the more I fell in love with it. Behind home plate is a massive metal grandstand. At a field in a small town like this, I would never expect to see a grandstand of this size and quality. The grandstand sits behind a towering net and backstop that reads, “Roseau Baseball.” 

Screen Shot 2023 05 17 at 12.04.19 PM

I mean, just take a look at the size  of this incredible seating area. As an avid baseball fan, this is a highly underrated aspect of the baseball field that I appreciated.

The playing surface of the baseball field appeared to be very nice. The lines were well-cut and kept in excellent shape. Side note, the groundskeeper does a very good job of keeping this field looking beautiful. The dimensions of the field were similar to a lot of the high school baseball fields that I have been to in my days of exploration. The luscious green outfield is wrapped in by a simple, green metal fence that displays the dimensions of the field in large yellow numbers. The field is 305 feet to the tall, yellow right-field foul pole and 307 feet to the left-field pole. The right-center gap is 365 feet deep and the left-center gap displays 363 feet. The color scheme of everything around this field goes so well together. The green and yellow fence meshes with the enormous trees behind the outfield fence to create a gorgeous combination and make an incredibly beautiful outfield scenery. 

The field has been host to a few historical events in its day and has seen some impressive baseball players over the years.

This field was home to former major league baseball player Kerry Taylor. Taylor played four years here for Roseau High School before playing in the MLB for the San Diego Padres. He is widely regarded as the best baseball player to come out of Roseau, Minnesota.

Another legendary baseball figure to come out of Roseau is Norb Pastor. Pastor was a long-time coach for the Roseau baseball program and to this day boasts the most wins of any coach in the high school’s history. The biggest event the field has hosted was back in 2017. The town hosted the Midwest Plains Regional Baseball Tournament at the thirteen-year-old Babe Ruth level. This was by far the most viewership the field has brought in. The tournament drew the largest crowds and made the loudest noise the field has ever seen. Reminiscing on this tournament gets me excited for this summer, as the field prepares to host the 2023 Minnesota Division II Legion State Tournament. If the tournament goes as I predict it will, the field might see a new attendance record being set this summer.

Screen Shot 2023 05 17 at 12.09.15 PM

The team is just starting their 2023-24 season, coming off a runner-up finish last year in the 2022 MSHSL State Tournament. I was fortunate enough to catch their home opener. I would highly recommend stopping by this hidden gem when you are visiting the town of Roseau. It has the perfect vibe for any person looking to catch a glimpse of America’s pastime. There are gorgeous views, delicious food, and exciting baseball games. Most of all, it is a great place to spend an evening. If you are like me and would like to get some delicious ballpark food and have entertainment for a night, stop by Gilbertson Field and watch the Roseau Rams play baseball.

Story Credit: Aaron Wensloff 

Strawberry Picking + Jam

There is something nostalgic about canning strawberry jam or canning in general.

It speaks to a time long ago when grandma spent hours in the garden and kitchen harvesting and preparing the summer’s crops for the long Minnesota Winters. Now it is far easier to stop by the grocery store and grab a can of tomatoes or a jam or jelly. Does it taste the same? NO! Is it as healthy? Probably not. It is as rewarding?  Absolutely not! We are sharing a simple freezer jam recipe that takes less than half an hour to make and the flavor is perfectly sweet and can be enjoyed for up to 1 year.  

Strawberry Jam

Best Places to Pick in Roseau?  

It’s that time of year again when nature gives us the sweetest treats to harvest. Strawberries, rhubarb, and raspberries are always in abundance in Roseau County. Picking them and preserving them is such a  great way to get the freshness of summer all year round. Beltrami Forest is a berry picker’s dream. Wild strawberries and raspberries are an early to mid-summer pick whereas blueberries are in early Fall. Taking the family out on a berry hunt is a great way to create memories and fill those cupboards with the taste of summer any time of the year. Roseau also has several berry farms with your pick options. 

Strawberry Jam 2

Preserving the Goodness  

Once you have the berries, consider saving some for canning and making jam. You might be thinking that making a jam is too much work. Why bother when shopping at the store is so easy?  The answer is simple: taste, health benefits, and the rewards. To those of us with an old-fashioned heart, food preservaƟon is a labor of love. Food preservaƟon is a healthy choice when it comes to eating better.  It is farm-to-table cooking at its best. When you harvest and prepare your own foods, you know what you are putting into the meal. When you unseal the jars, the smell of freshness is still there. You get bright bold natural colors without dyes and a sweet taste without all the processed sugars and preservaƟves.  The goodness is all in the flavor and those at your table will be glad you took 30 minutes to share this luscious just-picked berry taste. 

The Recipe-Strawberry Freezer Jam  

Yields: 6-8 f jelly/jam  

Ingredients:  

4-5 cups of stem-off pureed strawberries  

1 cup Sugar (For a healthier version use 3/4 Cup of Sugar or ½ sugar and ½ honey)  1 box of Pomona’s Universal PecƟn  

2 Tablespoons lemon juice  

¾ cup boiling water

You will need:  

  • Containers to put the jam in: half-pint mason jars or Glad Freezerware Containers 
  • Food Processor and blender 

Instructions 

  • Take out the white packet of Pomona’s Universal PecƟn/ dry Calcium Powder. Measure ¼  teaspoon of powder and place in a jar with a lid. Pour in ¼ Cup water and shake well. Set aside.  
  • Pomona’s PecƟn is all natural: the citrus-based pectin is activated with a calcium powder when mixed with water.  
  • In the food processor, add the lemon juice, sugar and whole-washed strawberries. Puree. 
  • Blend the boiling water and 1 Tablespoon of pectin (large white packet) together until smooth. Add the warm pectin mixture to the strawberries and mix. The mixture should jell and thicken. 
  • Shake the Calcium Water to recombine the cloudy mixture. Measure out 4 teaspoons, and add to the jam. Stir this into the berries by hand. Discard the remaining calcium water. 
  • Portion the jam into containers leaving ½ inch headspace. It is safe to store the jam in the fridge for a month or the freezer for up to a year.  
  • Eat and enjoy!  

Note: If using Sure Gel 4 cups of sugar is required for each 2 cups of pureed berries.  

Freezer canning is a rewording process from the harvest to the explosion of flavors sealed in each container. To some seeing the canned goods and their bright colors is an art. Your family will notice the delicious fresh flavors and soon you will be trying to master homemade bread to serve it on.

2023 Roseau Summer Concert Series at the Gazebo

Enjoy a night of free outdoor entertainment with concert nights at the Riverview Park Gazebo. 

A Summer-long series of musical concerts and performances for audiences of all ages. Bring your lawn chair for a Thursday evening of music and community gathering! Please support our various local organizations by enjoying a meal at each concert. There is no admission fee, however, donations are appreciated and will help to bring entertainment for area residents to enjoy year after year. The concert starts at 6:30 and finishes around 8:30 PM. Come join us for a summer gathering of music on the Roseau River Bank. 

This Years Line Up:  

June 15: Poppa Bear Norton  

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.02.09 AM

Who is Poppa Bear Norton? Hailing from the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Poppa Bear Norton proclaims themselves to be America’s only, and therefore number one, daredevil country act! They were recently awarded both the 2018 Midwest Country Music Association’s “Songwriter of the Year” and “Maverick” awards and have been described as hilarious hillbilly music and a two-man country music marvel.

They perform their own brand of country and western music that harkens back to the days of Buck Owens and Johnny Cash, as well as the outlaw era of Waylon, Willie, and Haggard. A time when a song was written like a well-crafted story and performed with passion, sincerity, humor, and refined musical skill that has been lost in today’s modern sound. When “Poppa Bear” (aka The Singer) and “B” (aka The Slinger) hit the stage and fire up their one-part honky-tonk, one-part Hee-Haw styled country show, it’s fast, exciting, fun, and entertaining. That’s what makes it a daredevil country.

Poppa Bear Norton is not just a band or a duo, it’s an award-winning act whose musical style, funny stage banter, and captivating lyrics will have you laughing one minute and tearing up the next. Non-country folks like ‘em because they look wild, play fast, and have fun performing a style of music they may have never heard before, in a way they have never seen. Country fans love ‘em because their energy, music, and stage banter remind them of something genuine and familiar, yet at the same time something completely new and different. That’s who Poppa Bear Norton is.


June 22: Family Night | The Circus Science Spectacular

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.07.11 AM

Steve Russell has toured the world performing on cruise ships, at festivals, Disney World, and on shows like Ellen and Regis and Kelly. He is joined on stage by Kobi Shaw, with a background in theater and circus. Together they use balancing, juggling, magic, and more to illustrate concepts of science – circus style. Audiences of all ages will alternate between laughter and amazement as science and circus combine.  


June 29: Downtown Horns  

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.01.01 AM

July 6: Austin Castle 

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.01.06 AM

Minnesota Native and country artist, Austin Castle got his start in music while attending audio production in the Twin Cities and working in a lumberyard to earn money for recording time. His debut album, Northwoods will be out in August. His music touches on growing up in the Northwoods along Lake Superior. While primarily focused on country music, he explores multiple genres with the general goal to make music his friends and family can swing and dance to.  


July 13: Sloughgrass  

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.01.11 AM

This family band is bluegrass at its best. What started as 8 family members, the band evolves as members come and go. If you were at last year’s Gazebo Concert when The Little Roy and Lizzie Show livened up the stage, you might remember Holger who played bass. His parent formed the band and jumped on stage with him for a few songs. Now, the kids are gone but their music remains as lively on stage. Expect to hear banjo and fiddling and everything that bluegrass is known for. The band gets people off their seats with a rich blend of bluegrass, gospel, country, folk, and Scandinavian music. We know this band will leave you wanting more. 


July 27: Divas Through the Decades  

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.01.16 AM

Divas Through the Decades is a musical tribute to some of the most influenƟal female vocalists in  American pop music, featuring songs from the 40s, through today’s current hits! The show features music made famous by various Divas including Patsy Cline, Bette Midler, Diana Ross and the Supremes,  Tina Turner, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Gloria Estefan, Shania Twain, and many more!  

Their stage show includes not only great music, but lots of fun audience interaction, comedy, great costume changes, and cuting-edge choreography!  

The group has performed all over the country including several state and county fairs, festivals, and corporate and private events as well as performing on NBC’s, “America’s Got Talent” in Hollywood CA, and most recently opening for Joan Rivers in Las Vegas!  


Aug 3: The O’Neil Family Band  

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.01.56 AM

The O’Neil Family Band is comprised of Tom, guitar and fiddle, Jeanne, banjo and concertina, and Erin,  fiddle, and feet. Together, they celebrate a form of dance and music that has endured for ages.  Throughout the years, these tunes and dances continue to be danced and played across the country — an art form that never dies out simply because it belongs to the people.  


August 10: Holly Rocka Rollaz  

Screen Shot 2023 05 24 at 9.02.02 AM

If you have been looking for the classic early rock ‘n’ roll and rockabilly of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly,  Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash (and many more!) that you want, played just the way those legends played it…you have found your dream band! Minnesota’s own Holy Rocka Rollaz brings back the sound, the look,  the memories, and nostalgia of one of America’s most treasured eras. There is nothing but PURE EARLY  AMERICAN ROCK ‘n’ ROLL about them. 


August 17: Local Talent Night and Relay for Life of Roseau County  

Roseau, MN ATV Park

MN ATV Park Roseau

The Roseau ATV Park is About to Get a New Look!

The City of Roseau ATV Park has been a hidden gem offering a free public space for riding within the city limits of Roseau. Recently a group of engineers with Polaris in Roseau decided to invest some time into helping the City of Roseau create Minnesota’s only four-season public power sports park. They met with City Council and formed a plan to re-develop the 25-acre park into a track system that will offer Off-Road Vehicle (ORV), motocross, and snowmobile tracks. The Roseau Powersport Park is about to be the place to ride.  

Screen Shot 2023 05 09 at 8.40.27 AM

The park is currently closed and the work has begun to create a track system for all levels of riding. The ATV Park will be rebranded as a Powersport Park meaning you can ride other products other than three and four-wheelers. The old track system was exciting as it offered obstacles for banking, whoops, and spots to ride freely. The new track will increase the trail system by 90%. There will be thrill-riding obstacles with logs and rock climbing, places to catch air, and twists and mounds to get the adrenaline going. If you need a more easy-going course to build confidence in riding, no problem the course will have three levels of skill. The engineering team comes with extensive riding safety knowledge and track layout experience. They have a long-term vision to add a dirt bike course for adults and will begin the layout of a youth track in August.

Roseau just got cooler, and they hope to make this a place that out-of-towners ride to or trailer their machines to experience.  

Screen Shot 2023 05 09 at 8.40.57 AM

A Powersports Park allows for a different style of riding. Getting out in the woods or trail riding is relaxing and provides a great connection with nature. No matter where or how you ride, the mission is as simple as Polaris’s tagline – “Think Outside.” Despite being home to two of the largest power sports vehicle manufacturers in the United States (Polaris of Roseau and Arctic Cat of Thief River Falls), Northern Minnesota was void of riding opportunities. This region is known for wide open spaces which allow for vast riding opportunities but the trail is not for everyone. This park will provide free riding opportunities for those riding enthusiasts who like park-style riding. The goal is to create a space where riders can spend an afternoon with family and friends or meet like-minded riding enthusiasts. A place to ride, roast a hotdog in the fire pit and enjoy the outdoors.

Caroline Allard, Polaris Engineer says, “She wants to create a space where people can come together, make friends, and enjoy riding.” She adds, “that riding is a sport for all ages and teaches important life lessons- hard work, persistence, resilience, reward, and comradery.”  

An open community-based club has been formed to support the development of the park and promote power sports in Roseau. The Roseau Powersports Club wants to explore and engage with other regional and state power sports clubs as well as host events and race circuit opportunities at the park. With their experience and training, they will help build educational, safety, and sports awareness in the power sports industry for both youth and adults.

Screen Shot 2023 05 09 at 8.41.10 AM

The new re-developed park with open with the City of Roseau Mud Mayhem on June 3, 2023. This event is free to the public and will be your first chance to see the new track layout. The event starts at noon and runs until 3PM. Bring your power sport machine out for some mud flinging on the new track. For your safety, helmets and eye gear will be required for riders at this event. This is a day to get those machines dirty and test out what they can do or get through. Do not worry if you get stuck, someone driving a Polaris will gladly winch you out. You might have to take a few jabs especially if you are driving a machine other than Polaris. You can expect this as we are hometown proud and we bleed Polaris blue in this community.  

Screen Shot 2023 05 09 at 8.40.41 AM

Come dressed up for the annual Trash Your Dress Mud Run. The crowd will help pick the winner of the event. We do not care how you get through the mud the mission is to trash those dress clothes. You can run, jump, or ride through the mud pits to compete in the competition to be the Queen or King of the  Mud. Last year’s participants included fairies, nuns, grannies, and a group of fun-seeking guys willing to come out for a great laugh. The event is strictly for fun and spectators are welcome to watch from the stands. Remember the bleachers might still be in the splash zone. We will not judge if you come with a  trash bag as a mud cover. Who knows someone might be selling them at the event. We will have a camera crew filming, a DJ playing tunes, the fire department hosing machines off, prizes, and food. Life is a little more fun when you’re willing to play in the mud.  

Screen Shot 2023 05 09 at 8.41.32 AM

FAQs

WHERE IS THE PARK? The Roseau Powersports Park is located north of Roseau Electric.

IS THERE PARKING? Yes. Vehicles can be trailed in if needed, a parking lot is connected to the park.

ARE THERE BATHROOMS? As of now, we do not have a bathroom facility, we recommend making a pit stop in town. There are public restrooms at the City of Roseau Riverfront Park and the Splash Pad. The bathroom is on the wish list.

WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE? You can currently find them on Facebook at Roseau Powersports Club. Here you can watch the team’s developments at the park and find out how to get involved with the club.  

Screen Shot 2023 05 09 at 8.40.49 AM

We encourage you to come to see the Park. Ride, hang out, and have some fun in the outdoors. With Spring here it’s time to get back out and ride!

2023 Roseau Citywide Garage Sale

Garage Sale Map 2023

Garage sale season officially kicks off with the Roseau City Wide Garage sale on Saturday, May 13. 

Roseau Promotions Director, Sinnamon Krings says “the event brings people from across the region to hunt second-hand treasure. Who knows what you will find, that’s the thrill of the hunt. Garage sales are a great way to meet your neighbors, collectors, and other folk in your community.”

Garage sale locations by clicking here to download the pdf as well as on our Facebook page.

The City of Roseau sponsors the event on Saturday from 8AM-5PM. Sale participants may choose to open a day early or run different hours.  

Garage Sale Map 2023

Spring in Roseau | Top Recreational Ideas

Spring in Roseau

Spring is the ideal time to explore the vast outdoors. Roseau, Minnesota provides a variety of recreational opportunities for everyone, whether they are thrill-seekers or those looking for a  relaxing way to enjoy the sun. We have it here.  

IMG 9222 copy

All-Terrain Vehicle Riding for Your Spring Adventures  

If you’re looking for a thrilling off-road experience, we have it here in Roseau. You can ride in dense forests, get some air at gravel pits and ride long stretches of farmland. If you travel a  mile east of downtown you will discover the City of Roseau ATV Park. This park provides over  25 acres of ATV-specific trails. They even host a mud run the first week in June. For a more secluded and picturesque ride, head to Beltrami State Forest, where you can explore miles of wooded trails and take in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. At the end of the day ride off into the sunset.  

IMG 9602 copy

Bike Riding for Cycling Your Way into Spring  

Bike riding is a fantastic way to take in the fresh air and scenic views for those who prefer a  more leisurely form of outdoor recreation. Explore a variety of bike-friendly trails and pathways in Roseau, whether you bring your own bicycle or rent one from a local shop. Take a bike  journey along the Roseau River or try out Mount Roseau a mountain bike park with high inclines 

IMG 9601 copy

Enjoy a Round of Golf at Oakcrest Golf Course  

Oakcrest Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course that stretches along the Roseau River and is owned by the City of Roseau. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, this course offers a challenging yet pleasurable round of golf amid breathtaking natural scenery. After your round, walk to the clubhouse for a drink and a bite to eat while you take in the breathtaking views.  

Take a Hike at Hayes Lake State Park  

Hayes Lake State Park is a brief drive from Roseau and is ideal for scenic hiking. This park features over 200 acres of natural grandeur and a variety of hiking trails for hikers of all skill levels. From easy strolls to strenuous treks, this area offers something for everyone. Explore the park’s many trails and pathways to take in breathtaking views of the crystal-clear lake, river, and endless wilderness. See forest friends like owls, squirrels, rabbits, and a wide variety of birds. A  hike in the woods is always time well spent. 

IMG 9603 copy

Experience Camping in Roseau  

The City of Roseau Park and Hayes Lake State Park provides two excellent camping options for those seeking to spend time in the great outdoors in Roseau. Both camping options for tents and campers with water and electrical hookups, making it simple to appreciate the splendor of nature while retaining the conveniences of home. The City of Roseau Park is located just outside of the downtown area and provides access to the forests and river within minutes of the city. Get out on the Roseau River in a Kayak. Do not worry if you do not have your own. You can rent a kayak and have it delivered to one of Roseau’s easy-to-use canoe and kayak launches. You can also walk miles of trails and cross bridges tucked in trees. If you want a  more remote location, make reservations at Hayes Lake State Park. The DNR calls Hayes Lake  State Park one of the most peaceful parks in the state. Let us know if you agree. 

 

IMG 9189 copy

Drop a Line Fishing Lake of the Woods  

Minnesota is renowned for its world-class angling, and with over 10,000 lakes in the state,  opportunities to capture a trophy fish are abundant. Lake of the Woods, located 20 minutes east of Roseau, is legendary for its walleye fishing. The 75th annual Minnesota fishing opener begins on May 12, making it the ideal opportunity to visit the state and try your luck at catching a large fish. Come to fish Lake of the Woods and bring home that trophy fish. Eat it, mount it, or throw it back – we won’t judge. Vacation your way.  

IMG 9255 copy

Explore Bird Watching in the Northwoods  

Roseau’s pines, prairies, and wetlands are home to a vast array of bird species. Whether you’re an avid or casual birder, Roseau offers some of the finest locations in the state to observe birds.  Wake early to watch the sunrise before spending the day birding in the wilderness of northwestern Minnesota. Explore the dense pine forests and expansive prairies while keeping an eye out for rare and exotic species. Looking to see a bald eagle up close, this majestic bird is a common site in Roseau County. The MN – Department of Natural Resources has put this sighting guide together to help find your favorite feathered friends in the Hayes Park area.  Whatever the season, the birding here is top notch  https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/destinations/state_parks/hayes_lake/bird_checklist.pdf

Roseau has something for everyone, whether you seek an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a  peaceful stroll through the forests.  

Then why are you still waiting? This spring, gather your friends and family and travel to Roseau to enjoy all the outdoor activities this scenic region has to offer. With so many activities to choose from, you are certain to create unforgettable memories and experience a once-in-a-lifetime journey. 

Visit our website for more information: www.goroseau.com 

Roseau Travel Influencer

Meet Roman the Traveling Gnome.

Roman is a travel influencer from Roseau, MN. His Roseau adventures are shared on the Go Roseau website. When he is not sharing his travels online, he’s dreaming of where he’ll end up next.

IMG 9639 copy

Roman has Roseau roots but is ready for his next great travel adventure. Take him on your next trip and click a photo of him living it up. Share his journey by uploading a photo with the QR code. Then check back every month as Roman guides you through his day visiting highlights in his hometown of Roseau. His adventures will include; a behind-the-scenes look at manufacturing at Polaris Ind., a peek in the kitchen at Nelson’s Cafe on potato dumpling day, a ride on the City of Roseau fire truck, and splashing through the mud at the ATV park. Who knows where Roman will turn up? Drop us a message at roseau.mn.promotions@gmail.com to let us know where you think Roman should roam next!

If you’re heading on a great adventure, or visiting the community of Roseau, and would like to take Roman on a vacation with you, shoot us a message and let us know you’re looking for a new travel companion. Roman is currently single, rarely snores, is a light packer, and loves to talk hockey and snowmobiling. That makes Roman the perfect travel pal! Be sure to check back for an update on Roman’s adventures, and remember to share his journeys with us.

U Betcha! You Know You’re in Roseau If …

U Betcha Roseau, MN

1. You run into a famous hockey player at the local cafe.  

Bonus if it’s Tuesday and they are serving potato dumplings.  

Famous hockey players people Roseau

2. Someone is eating cinnamon bread with Cheese Whiz & green olives.

Cheese

3. A car is left unlocked, windows down in the summer, and running at the store with no one in it. 

Windows down

4. You hear someone say, “U Betcha, Oh fer cute, Uffda or Fer Pete’s Sake”.

Roseau Cafe

5. Short and sandal weather starts at 45 degrees. 

Roseau, MN

6. Hockey is considered a season.  

U betcha Roseau hockey

7. You see someone drive to work on a Polaris snowmobile or ranger.  

Polaris Roseau, MN

8. It’s freezing cold or scorching hot outside, but someone tells you it could be worse. 

Roseau MN Weather

9. Soda is “Pop” and Casseroles are “Hotdish”. 

pop vs soda

10. Everyone is “Minnesota Nice” and goodbyes take 20 minutes.  

U Betcha License

Come visit, you will love it here. Come during Fair Week. Yes, the fair is not just a day here it’s a week. This is a great example of a Roseau goodbye, there is always just one more thing.

Barns and Back Roads of Roseau County

barns

Red-painted barns are an icon across the Northeast and the Midwest. In keeping with tradition, these red barns often sit alongside a stark white farmhouse, providing a contrast against farmland. Their old bones are getting tired and showing their age, but they are still as beautiful today as when they were first built. Let’s look at some of the majestic old barns of Roseau County.

1010wildlife

The red barn is an icon of rural America. These are one of the few distinctly American structures borne from our earliest days in history. Settlers adapted the European barn to serve our extensive livestock and agricultural needs. Today, new and historic barns serve many different purposes, remaining a vital part of rural American culture. In Roseau County, modern farming methods sit beside hundreds of year-old barns. Rust-covered Silos still have a place next to the hundreds of thousands of dollars silos of today. They complement each other well, a sign of farming and agricultural growth and development through the years.

1002barns

You can travel the farmlands and back roads across Roseau County and see the old red barns in all their glory. There are more than a dozen scattered on farms in the county, and they are beautiful in any season. A drive down back roads, many unpaved, will lead you to these treasures of America’s past. Many generations of farm families have worked the land and livestock and still live on the homesteads. We recently polled Roseau residents; some have been in the county for 5 to 6 generations. Their names are often proudly displayed on the farmland signage. If you make a road trip, travel through the townships of Falun, Enstrom, Spruce, and Malung. The barns stand tall and proud and can be observed from the road without pestering the landowners.

tracks 041

These old barns have served many purposes over the years. One Roseau resident recalls Arne and Luella Erickson’s barn in Falun as quite the hub for activities in the past. Many dances, live bands, firework shows, potlucks, or just cups of coffee with friends were experienced there. If you ask them about their younger years in the barns, old timers get a twinkle in their eye. They were an excellent place for shenanigans and meeting with neighborhood kids or a love interest. It’s best that walls can’t talk in many cases, but we all know these barns have stories. Some stories are shared, and others are a best-kept secret.

1004barns

Why are the barns red? There are a couple of theories on why red is the predominant color of barns. Historically, barns were duller orange-red, not the bright red seen on barns today. The tint came from a linseed oil mixture that seals barns after construction. Some farmers added rust – ferrous oxide – to the solution to keep the barns from developing moisture and mold in the wood. The addition of rust to the mixture tinged it red.

FrostyBarn

Old barns hold more than a rich history sitting on their warped wood. They have stories, love, memories, a past purpose, and more. Many of these iconic barns still stand in Roseau County, and many more are fighting to stand. Because of this, we invite you to visit Roseau and take in the barns of its past. Make your next road trip to Roseau County for the full backroads and barn experience.

Mud Mayhem & Trash Your Dress ATV Mud Run

Get Muddy in Roseau

Mud Run 2023 Roseau

Trailer your ATV, ORV, Dirt Bike, or High Lifter to the Roseau ATV Park for mud-flinging mayhem Saturday, June 3 from 12 – 3 PM. The track will be made with Roseau’s finest gumbo creating a stinky and muddy ride. If you hit the trails right, you will be muddy too. There will be whoops, curves, and mud pits to take the ride up a notch.

Roseau is the birthplace of Polaris Industries and they are excited to co-host this event. They remind us to “Think Outside” by joining in Mud Mayhem 2023.

The day’s goal… get those machines DIRTY. It’s that simple!

Events Include: High Lifters, ATV/ORV, Dirt Bike, and Youth Ride

trash your dress roseau, mn

Come Trash Your Dress in the 2023 Competition.

The crowd will pick its winners, based on presentation. Everyone and anyone can enter the competition. Dig in the closet for your wedding dress, prom gowns, or granny’s old Sundy best and be prepared to Trash the Dress.

IMG 9206

WHAT WILL ALL THIS FUN COST?

It’s FREE. Please note, helmets are required on the mud course for all participants. Waivers will be given to all riders.

Roseau Fire Department will be on sight for machine spray downs. We encourage you to bring a change of clothes, towel, and warm blanket. A portable changing station will be available.

IMG 9221

Bleachers for observing the run will be available for those who want a day of laughter and fun. Local organizations and food trucks will be out serving food and beverages.

Lodging is available with parking for Trailers at the Roseau AmericInn and North Country Inn. Come play and stay in Roseau, MN. The City of Roseau has designated paths for riding through town. Ask the hotel guest services for a map. We will meet you at the park, north of Roseau Electric.

Roseau AmercInn Inn

Kick off every morning with a free homestyle breakfast and then spend some time working out in our fitness center and relaxing in the indoor pool. To stay connected, make use of the free WiFi or visit our business center.

1110 3rd St NW
Roseau, MN 56751

Phone(218) 463-1045

BOOK NOW

North Country Inn

Discover the perfect space to start and end your day in Roseau, MN. Our hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites, including your choice of a king suite, family suite, queen room, or double queen room. Upgrade to a suite for extras such as whirlpool tubs, sofa beds, and wet bars. All accommodations feature modern comforts such as flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, microwaves, mini-refrigerators, bath amenities, and free Wi-Fi. ​

902 3rd St NW
Roseau, MN 56751
 
Phone(888) 300-2196

BOOK NOW