The Otter Tail County Historical Society’s new exhibition RESORTS is now open

“In the heart of the lakes with excellent resorts, we invite you to stay, fish and play.” By the early 1880s, Otter Tail County was already becoming a destination for people seeking to escape the heat of teeming cities or the scorching plains of Iowa, Nebraska and Illinois. Observing the landscape from the top of Inspiration Peak in the Leaf Hills, the great American author Sinclair Lewis said, “there’s to be seen a glorious 20 mile circle of some 50 lakes scattered among fields and pastures like sequins fallen on an old paisley shawl.” From this idyllic landscape camps and resorts sprang up nestled along the shores of pristine lakes.

While resort accommodations were often basic and spartan, but that didn’t seem to bother people. For them it was a great adventure, an escape where every waking hour was spent swimming, wading, fishing, boating and catching minnow. The goal was to escape the everyday routine of work and home life to celebrate the waterside paradise.

OTCHS staff and volunteers have put together another outstanding exhibit that explores the impact of resorts in Otter Tail County. A tour of the display is almost like being at an old fashioned resort, without the mosquitos.

RESORTS will run throughout 2024. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday, 10-4, with Saturday hours June-August. For more information call 218-736-6038 or visit us on Facebook.