Most of us would have to admit that while we’ve had a few “great ideas” over the years, few of them come to fruition. It takes a bona fide doer to take a concept from a dream to reality. If you look around at the fabulous organizations we enjoy, they all started with some doers. Doers do stuff, they follow through and even flourish. Fifty years ago, a few folks (nine) in Crosslake discussed an idea to form a historical society while meeting in the basement of the Lutheran Church. The mission was to represent Crosslake as it was at the turn of the century when local industry transitioned from logging to tourism. In November of this year, the society will turn fifty years old, and is as robust as ever.
Officially incorporated in 1975, the Crosslake Historical Society hoped to create an authentic log village. Today, the village consists of several buildings, but it began with the dedication of a town hall in 1981, then the Ostlund Pioneer Home was donated in 1986. After that a logging camp and one room school were added in 1994. A replica of the general store was erected in 1999, and the construction of a blacksmith building was competed in 2011. Over 2,000 people visit the village yearly. There is a self-guided tour, but also the historical society welcomes scheduled tours, community speakers, artisans for certain events, and more. During the upcoming summer months there are events nearly every weekend, including activities for children. Learn more about the Log Village here: crosslakelogvillage.com. There are a few of the original doers floating around, and the historical society has added more doers to carry the torch. All of them are volunteers and they welcome anyone who feels inclined to lend a hand, either physically, through donations, or both. A 50th anniversary is a big deal, so check back for more information on upcoming celebratory plans, as well as updated events. Thank you to those who not only dream, but DO.
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