Happy Birthday Fergus Falls – Celebrating 150 Years!
By Jean Bowman
One hundred and fifty years ago George B. Wright wrote in eastern newspapers inviting people to come to Fergus Falls “The Coming City of the West.” We still celebrate “the waters of the mighty river” and the land
“flowing with wheat, potatoes, cabbage.” He built the Central Dam (still located on Cascade Street) and harnessed the power of the Otter Tail River for milling. People heeded his call and settled here with their families. They came on the iron “hoss” to establish homes and businesses, encouraged by what Mr. Wright promised.
Fergus Falls still respects the Otter Tail River with new development downtown. School enrollment is on the rise, business development is strong and the community is poised to celebrate 150 years. We invite you to visit Fergus Falls in 2022 to celebrate with us. It’s even fun to say: sesquicentennial (sess-kwa-cen-TEN-knee-al). Community partners are upping the excitement of many events, kicking off March 18 with the historical society’s exhibit “Fergus Falls Through the Ages” which runs throughout the year. Even the City Council will reenact its first meeting (March 30). They warn not to expect top hats and tails and will not tolerate bickering about land ownership.
Parades, Summerfest, vintage baseball, and historic tours (by bus or by foot) will focus on the places and faces that made Fergus Falls such a prosperous city – one worthy of the county seat – which we “stole” in 1872 from Ottertail City, the first county seat. Fireworks are planned at least twice throughout the year, we’ll host an all-school reunion and the Fergus Falls Journal newspaper will publish a commemorative edition, complete with pictures and stories from the archives.
Fergus Falls is well known for its strong arts community. Reflective of that reputation, ceramic artist Blayze Buseth, will produce a limited edition of 4” x 4” commemorative porcelain tiles. And a limited edition commemorative coin will be minted. The performing arts will be showcased with concerts in the park, at the Kirkbride and in the Center for the Arts (which just celebrated its 100th anniversary).
New banners throughout Fergus Falls showcase the historic City Hall bell tower and remind visitors of the city’s 1872 beginnings. For current schedules and information, visit FergusFalls150.com.
