The Amazing First Lady of Polaris Industries | Gertie Hetteen

A Trailblazer for Working Women and Polaris Industries  Introducing Gertie Hetteen!

The Amazing First Lady of Polaris

Gertie Hetteen- First Lady of Snowmobiling

If Allan Hetteen was the first President of Polaris Industry, then his wife Gertie was the First Lady.

“Soon I learned there was something very 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

https://goroseau.com/polaris-how-it-all-began-the-story-of-a-company-in-the-making/

Middle age man
Edgar Hetteen
Navy man during WWII
David Johnson, U.S. Navy 1944-1946. He served on the LSM 339 in China
Allan as a new partner with Hetteen Hoist and Derrick
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.  

Toddler Gertie

Alma Gertrude Erickson, born March 30, 1930.

Little girl playing outside

Gertrude as a toddler was always ready to blaze a trail to start the day with gusto!

Gerties Elementary Photo

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 something very 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  full concentration  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

Gerties Graduation Photo
Allan Hetteen as a young man

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!

 

Allan as a young boy
Allan as a teenager 1
As a teenager Allan loved to take outdoor photos.
Gertie and Allan Hetteen
Allan waited patiently for Gertie almost two years! Patience is a virtue as finally they were a couple!
Allan graduation pic 1948 bw
Allan’s graduation portrait from Roseau High School in 1948.
Shy Gertie Hetteen

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 and Gertie Hetteen Wedding Photo

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.

The 1st Christmas card as a new couple

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!

Gertie and Allan's First Home

The First Home of Allan and Gertie’s!  

Polaris logo sets you free transparency

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”?

To learn more about the history of Polaris and where it all began, visit the Roseau County Museum and Historical Society for a digital library roseaurosroseauhttps://roseaucohistoricalsociety.org/

Written and Researched by Carmen Przekwas

Memories shared by Mike Hetteen 

Digital Creator Sinnamon Krings Roseau Promotions Director: All Rights Reserved Carmen Przekwas

Photos Hetteen and Przekwas Personal Collections

 

Birdwatchers MN Check Out Roseau’s 5 Commonly seen Winter Birds

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“A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song. ” Chinese Proverb

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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.

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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.
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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. 

 

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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.

 

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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.

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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.

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Photo Credit: Nickelle Johnson and Heather Morey 

61st WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SNOWMOBILE Derby (Looking back on the racers over the years)

The Eagle River World Championship!

 Friday, January 19 – Sunday, January 21, the 61st Derby is on!

 In honor of the 70th Polaris Anniversary being held August 16-18, 2024. We would like to highlight some of the World Champions who live or have lived in Roseau County or were driving the Polaris snowmobile to win the prestigious race.
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The 1977 World Championship start of the race at Eagle River, Wisconsin. The top ten finalists for the world championship event included

Polaris Race Team members (on the right), Jerry Bunke, Brad Hulings, and Steve Thorsen.

 The World Championship Derby Complex in Eagle River Wisconsin, considered “The Snowmobile Capital of the World”, hosts oval, snocross, and vintage racing. The World Championship Snowmobile Derby is not only the largest and most prestigious snowmobile competition in the sport, it is one of the highest-ranking winter sports events in the Midwest and is recognized around the world.

“Eagle River” is known as the Indianapolis 500 of snowmobile racing. The Derby attracts more than 40,000 spectators annually. Fans travel from all over the United States, Canada and beyond to watch more than 500 international drivers race their high-tech snowmobiles at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour on a solid ice oval track. For over 50 years, the race has been held on a fully contained, half-mile banked oval track located in the heart of one of Wisconsin’s most popular resort areas., Eagle River.

The Polaris snowmobile and Roseau County residents hold claim to many Eagle River Derby World  Champions!

1964 winner of the “World’s First Snowmobile Derby, Stan Hayes


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15-year-old Stanley Hayes was driving an experimental Sno-Traveler from Polaris Industries.

The next eight years would be run by a variety of other snowmobile brands, including Evinrude, Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat and Yamaha

Polaris Race Team legend Bob Eastman of Roseau, MN is the 1973 Eagle River World Champion!

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A lack of snow failed to ruin the 1973 championship derby on Sunday, January 21.

Eastman drove his sled to victory lane not on ice or snow, but on a sawdust race track!

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A fan favorite, Eastman’s trophy presentation in Victory Lane was received with thunderous applauding from the crowd!

The top ten qualifying drivers for the finals in the 1975 World Championship 

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Back row, left to right, Gordon Rudolph, Sam Sessions, Ed Schubitzke, Stan Hayes, Larry Coltom, Front row: left to right: Jim Adema, Don Omdahl, Giles Vileneuve, Larry Rugland, and Jim Bernat.

1975 World Champion

Jim Bernat

bernet Jim

Bernat, living in Roseau, MN since the early 1960s, known as “Smiling Jim”, was a Polaris Race Team member since 1968.

Jim took home the world championship trophy on a Polaris 650 factory race sled.

1977 and 1978 Champion

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Steve Thorsen

Polaris Race Team driver, Steve Thorsen from Fergus Falls, MN was the second driver to win back-to-back championships.

Fun fact: 1977 was the first year of the Polaris IFS rather than the leafer suspension.

1990 World Champion

Dave Wahl from Greenbush, Minnesota driving a Ski-Doo , wearing Bib #74,

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Dave and his brother Durmont established Wahl Brothers Racing in 1981, after the closing of Arctic Cat and the break-up of Team Arctic. Their shop was located in Thief River Falls, MN. The team switched to racing a Ski-Doo twin track in 1987.

1996 and 1997 World Champion

Dave Wahl

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Dave Wahl, Greenbush, Minnesota driving a Ski-Doo to victory

In 1985 Wahl Brothers Racing relocated their business to their hometown of Greenbush, MN.

1998 World Champion

Cinco de Mayo Card Landscape 8.5 x 11 in

Terry Wahl

A resident of Greenbush, MN, Terry won his championship title on a Skidoo Champ 440 sled.

Terry is the nephew of Dave Wahl and son of Durmont Wahl. Terry joined Wahl Bros. Racing in 1993 as a team member.

Since 1998 Wahl Bros. have been racing for Team Polaris. “It has been an exciting change that has produced a World Championship Title in the Mod 500 Class, among other prestigious victories in oval races on Polaris race sleds.”

2010 World Champion

Matt Schulz, Wausau, Wisconsin

2010

Matt was the first Polaris driver to win the Championship since Steve Thorsen in 1978.

2012 World Champion

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Nick Van Strydonk, Tomahawk, Wisconsin driving a Polaris with an engine built by former Polaris racer Larry Rugland.

Nick was just 21 years old.

2017 World Champion

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Bib # 13 Nick Van Strydonk, Tomahawk, Wisconsin driving a Polaris, won the 30-lap feature by almost

leading from start-to-finish!

2018 World Champion, 2019 World Champion, 2020 World Champion, 2021 World Champion

Photo taken in 2021

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Blaine Stephenson!

Blaine Stephenson from St. Cloud, Minnesota takes home FOUR championship titles on a Polaris race sled back-to-back-to-back-to-back!

Blaine is a professional ice oval snowmobile race driver for Wahl Bros. Racing, Greenbush, Minnesota and Polaris Racing.

The 2022 World Champion

Jay Mittelstaedt, La Valle, Wisconsin Driving a Polaris

Fun Fact: Jay met his now wife Paige Decker at the Eagle River Race Track, which was previously owned by her extended family, so they decided to have their wedding at the facilities.

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Eagle River is set to thrill with the 61st World Championship Snowmobile Derby

See you at the races

Researched by Carmen Przekwas, References: Roseau County Historical Society, Warriors of Winter, The Legend of Polaris, Mike Hetteen, Polaris Post Company newsletters, Starfire Kids, Snow Goer, Wahl Bros. Racing, World Championship Derby Complex, Photos: Randy Larson, Karolyn and Bob Eastman Collection All Rights Reserved

Polaris Snowmobile Racing- Meet the Official 1st Race Driver

December13, 2023

As the snowmobile racing season is about to start, we would like to look back at Polaris and the first official race driver. This year also marks Polaris’s’ 70th Anniversary and we plan to dig deep into the history showing you a collection of photos and memorabilia that has not been seen before. Let’s start by telling a little story about a Polaris legend!

DAVID JOHNSON

CO_FOUNDER of POLARIS

Did you know David Johnson, one of the founders of Polaris Industries, was the first official Polaris race driver?

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1956 Polaris Sno-Traveler with David Johnson

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1958 photo includes (left to right): David Johnson, Art Lisell, Mitchell Johnson, Steve Rugland 

Note the all-aluminum Sno-Traveler Steve is standing by: was one of the first sleds made from aluminum patterned after the trailblazer’s nose (on left) only bigger.

In 1958 David Johnson, with a contingent of drivers from Polaris met up with the Harry C. Paul’s group from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Harry was a promoter and owner of the Autoboggan. The engine is inside the rear track unit, pushing forward as shown with the toboggan in the front with Mr. Paul steering.

     Harry Paul’s  1958 Autoboggan. 
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The group set out to demonstrate the usefulness and design of the Sno-Traveler and Autoboggan. They chose to attend The annual Pas, Manitoba Fur Festival, a wintertime gathering with large crowds celebrating the bountiful harvest of fur pelts while having fun in the snow. There were a variety of contests, including dog sled racing.

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The two parties participated in driving around the lake to prove the snowmobiles would work better than the dog sled teams. A tactic to draw more attention to the snow machines was to have the first “snowmobile race” to make them look more exciting. As David was quoted in Bill Vint’s “Warriors of the Winter”, “We tried to rig them a little bit so we had a zig-zag effect,” he confessed. “One guy ahead, and then the other, and so on. At a terrific speed of about 20 miles per hour!” 

David Johnson is doing some zigging and zagging on a 1957 Polaris Sno-Traveler!

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Much to the dismay of H.C. Paul, the Autoboggan broke down during the race expedition on the lake. David hooked up some straps and pulled Paul’s machine in with his Polaris Sno-Traveler.

Instead of going a shorter distance to Harry Paul’s truck, David decided to tour The Pas by driving through the town’s main street. Yet another opportunity for Johnson’s to promote Polaris’ brand as being trustworthy and reliable.

Because of that particular weekend, Harry later had a meeting with David Johnson, Allan, and Edgar Hetteen to form an agreement. 

Polaris would build the snow machines, Harry Paul would become a distributor with the stipulation the Canadian-sold sleds name remain Autobaggon. The Autoboggans were built for Harry C. Paul, Ltd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to market in Canada by Polaris Industries of Roseau, MN from 1958 through 1966.

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In 1959, Johnson led another expedition into northern Manitoba and the Polaris group had plans made for some genuine snowmobile contests. A circular course was marked out with stakes in the snow on Grace Lake. The distance was about 400 yards. Three races were held, it was informal but marked the start of organized snowmobile racing and David Johnson won the race again!

 In 1960 the Trapper’s Festival added cross-country snowmobile races to the festivities. Again, David Johnson on the Sno-Traveler was the winner. According to Harry Paul, “No one could beat David. In the cross-country, David would take off right through the small trees!”His sturdy machine blazing his trail. Everyone else was afraid to try it and dodged around the trees. David believed in the power of his machine. “David always won!” reported Harry Paul.

Snowmobile racing had begun thanks to Polaris’ first official snowmobile race driver DAVID JOHNSON!

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Autoboggans were similar to Polaris machines but were painted Harvest Gold versus the bright red of early Polaris models. This particular model is a K95C with a 9.5hp Kohler motor.

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David was a soft-spoken man, humble and generous. Johnson would remain a regular at the plant his entire life, visiting over coffee. When David walked into the engineering department, “the shop”time was given to talk with him about production and the latest in engineering. The coffee talk was sharing tales and asking for advice. When asked why they designed the sno- traveler, David would laugh and say.

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We were pretty much outdoors people, and we did quite a bit of hunting in the Northwest Angle for all kinds of game. We had a lot of snow in some of those winters, so you had to go on snowshoes or walk or whatever. So, I used to tell people that we were lazy, we didn’t want to walk, so we thought of something to ride.” David Johnson told Snow Goer.com on October 9, 2013

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It is hard to describe the effect David Johnson had on the industry since he helped build the first Polaris Sno-Cat in 1956. These pioneers left behind a great heritage. David lived in Roseau, the birthplace of Polaris until he died in 2016 at 93. His legacy and beliefs are woven into the small community. You can see many Polaris products at the Polaris Experience Center, in Roseau. Admission is always free. You can also arrange a tour of the manufacturing plant. If you like vintage, consider attending the David Johnson Sno-Cat Spectacular held in December. You won’t just find Polaris there. Take in shop-built, unconventional, and some classics. It’s a day to celebrate the engineering and mastery of putting snow skis and a motor together. Next time your skis hit the snow, think of the ones that rode the trails before you and those visions that are still being designed by people like David Johnson.

In the next article, we will be re-introducing some of the residents of Roseau County and Polaris employees who helped bring the Polaris snowmobiles to the forefront in racing!

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You are invited to attend the 70th Polaris Anniversary Celebration on August 16-18, 2024. Book your lodging now.

Historical Content: Carmen Przekwas, Mike and Donovan Hetteen, Roseau Electric Volts and Views, Roseau Times Region and the Roseau County Museum Archives.

Christmas of Yesteryear- A Gnome’s Magical Night on the Farm

Christmas Travel 1

December 1, 2023

 A Gnome’s Magical Christmas Adventure: Lights of Yesteryear at Pioneer Farm and Village

‘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 a cup of 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 of 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.

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The buildings were adorned with strings of twinkling fairy lights that danced merrily in the chilly night breeze. Each storefront boasted a unique display of decorations, 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.

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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. Huge 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.

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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. People laughed and froliced under the lights.

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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 overall 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 found myself 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 that 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.

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Nights of Lights Roseau, MN

Nights of Lights is a free event that is 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

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