There is nothing new in the world except the history you do not know.
President Harry S. Truman
History is like the oft-neglected middle child of the branches of knowledge. As a society, we are compelled to news of the present, and imaginings of the future dizzy our minds with endless possibilities. The past, however, has come and gone – what value remains?
Fergus Falls, Minnesota is a city of roughly 14,000 men, women, and children, first chartered in 1872 and built upon the promise of the Otter Tail River. It’s a city that has seen great success and terrible hardships. It’s a city that has—through time—re-envisioned itself on more than one occasion. It’s also a city whose history has largely been gathered in bits and pieces over the last 150 years – never receiving the comprehensive compilation it deserves.
All of that changes in today.
I am proud to formally announce that the Otter Tail County Historical Society, in partnership with RCWritesWell, DBA, have entered into an exclusive agreement produce an accurate, compelling, and readable history on the city of Fergus Falls. Drawing on the historical society’s remarkable library and their staff’s unparalleled subject matter knowledge, the final result—a book, published locally—aims to be a keepsake and tribute for many decades to come.
What Happens Next?
Work is already underway on the Otter Tail County Historical Society’s new book: Founding Fergus Falls: A History (working title). The project was initiated after a substantial and generous local grant, and further fundraising efforts are underway. If you would like to be a part of this exciting project, consider a tax-deductible donation to the historical society on behalf of Founding Fergus Falls.
Or call or stop in to learn more about contributing financially.
More information will be shared both online and through traditional media in the months to come, and we look forward to pulling back the curtain on this considerable undertaking! Publication is anticipated in late 2024, and all proceeds will benefit the historical society and its operations throughout Otter Tail County
Stay tuned!
R.C. Drews
Owner, RCWritesWell
