The largest open pit mines in the world were located in Hibbing, Minnesota. This drove the region’s economy and in early days, the iron range was very wealthy. Today, the Iron World Museum brings tourism to the Iron Range.

Deerhunting in Minnesota boosts the economy, brings tourism to the state, and is strong in promoting family and traditions. Governor Tim Pawlenty promoted the Thief River Falls area by bringing his “Governors Deer Opener” to northwest Minnesota in 2009.

In 1894, Hamilton Harris Judson started an experiment with rural free mail delivery in Farmington, Minnesota. It afforded farmers to receive daily delivery in their own private mailboxes.
Also on the show: Jim tells of his days at Concordia as well as the history of the Christian college and Jan tells of the history of Northland Community & Technical College in Thief River Falls, MN.

John Ireland was born in Ireland and immigrated to Minnesota in 1852. He was ordained a priest and was responsible for building many Catholic schools in Minnesota, including The University of St. Thomas and St. Thomas Academy.

Also in the show: Itasca State Park was created in 1891. At the time, rampant logging was stopped in the area. The Civilian Conservation Corps built structures and spruced up the park. Itasca is enjoyed by thousands of tourists each year.

On this editon, Jim talks about the many historic sites and country museums that are part of Minnesota’s Historic Northwest and Jan takes us on a tour of The Wm. S. Marvin Training and Visitor Center,ocated in Warroad, Minnesota.