800-726-8959
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Downtown Fergus Falls Mystery Tour
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Stories from the State Hospital
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Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Tour & much more
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Call ahead for times and locations
www.otchs.org
218-736-6038
1110 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls
Otter Tail County
Historical Museum
Con necting to the Com munity
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Exhibits
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Genealogical Research
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Unique Special Events
A river city with a rich heritage and culture
The river drew settlers from the East who recognized the rapids along
the Otter Tail River as a sign of future prosperity and used it for power and
transportation. Dozens of historic buildings and sites in downtown Fergus Falls
tell the story of those who settled here. Summer tours of these sites unlock
the mystery and history for participants. The Otter Tail County Historical
Museum continues to share the story of the area’s settlers and how prosperity
and tragedy impacted the ancestors of local residents. The museum tours and
exhibit information is available online at www.OTCHS.org. In the countryside,
discover Phelps Mill along the Otter Tail River. Originally called the Maine Roller
Mills, the mill is no longer in operation but is now the focal point of a beautifully
landscaped county park. A highlight is the Phelps Mill Festival, July 9-10.
The Kirkbride State Hospital is a beautiful, castle-like structure standing
proudly at the north end of town. Originally a psychiatric hospital, it was
abandoned as treatment methods and medicine evolved. Built in the 1890s
it once housed as many as 2,000 mentally-ill patients. It served recently as a
backdrop for the horror movie “Geist” and is currently awaiting plans for
redevelopment and preservation by the city.
John Olesen’s “Waves” is a gorgeous
glass sculpture suspended in the entry of
the new Lake Region Clinic.
Visual Arts
Visit Kaddatz Galleries (home to the work
of Charles Beck) and the Lake Region
Arts Council and public spaces like A
Center for the Arts and Legacy Hall at
M State College. Several locations
offer “paint and sip” nights, where artists
lead a group of novices through creating
their own painting…all while enjoying a
libation or two.
Performing Arts
A Center for the Arts, Concert
Association, Waage Theatre and high
school theater offer touring music,
theater and locally-produced works.
Art & History