Heritage center serves E. Polk County communities

When the East Polk Heritage Center (EPHC) was organized in 1986, founders envisioned a museum that would serve the communities and townships of East Polk County. From Gully to Fertile, Lengby to Mentor and all that lies between, the rich history of this area has been captured through the buildings, artifacts, stories and events that continue to be a part of EPHC’s mission.

With the availability of land and the donation of its first building, EPHC became a fixture in the City of Fosston in 1987 and has expanded there over the years. The L.W. Larson house, built in 1887 was donated to EPHC by Allen and Judy Potvin. Successful fund raising and volunteer efforts enabled the historic home to be moved from its location on the corner of Highway 2 and Inderlee Avenue North (now the site of Cornerstone Residence) to its new location in Melland Park.

The Larson House was restored and donations of furnishings, artifacts, historic documents, clothing and more came in so abundantly that all rooms in the house were filled and the museum was opened to the public in 1988. The house remained a focal point of the center for nearly ten years at which time a replica log cabin was built in1996 to serve as another museum building, again filled with articles from the days of pioneer settlers.

In 2010, the Rosebud Township board agreed to donate the Moen School to EPHC and this building, built in 1907 was moved from its location outside of Fosston to the heritage center campus. The school building has been restored, maintained and is now furnished with turn of the century school desks, books and early school days memorabilia.

In 2018, another building was relocated from south of McIntosh to the heritage center in Fosston. Through a generous donation from the Ostenson families, the ‘Stardig Cabin’, built in 1884, the cabin was carefully refurbished. It serves as a historic reminder of pioneer life, especially knowing that an entire family lived in this one room home. The cabin was dedicated at EPHC Heritage Days in 2018.

Over the past thirty years, EPHC has benefitted from memberships, volunteers, board members, donations and other resources from individuals, organizations, local units of government, and businesses throughout East Polk County. As a 100% volunteer run organization, EPHC relies heavily on the contributions of many to sustain its annual operating costs. Memberships are $30 for individuals/families and $50 for businesses. The annual membership drive is launched in March of each year and is ongoing throughout the year.

In addition to the upkeep of its existing buildings, EPHC continues to move forward with its plans for the Pine to Prairie Museum of History and Culture that will serve as a site for permanent and rotating exhibits, an area for workshops and performances, a research room, archival storage and public restrooms. To date, over $125,000 in donations and pledges have been raised to go toward this new facility.

Two major events are held each year to celebrate the heritage and culture of East Polk County. Heritage Days in September and the Heritage Holiday Dinner in December give an opportunity for attendees to learn and celebrate history. This year marks the 25th Annual Heritage Days to be held on September 7th. The 6th Annual Holiday Dinner will be held on December 7th. 

A variety of volunteer opportunities are available at EPHC. From hosting the heritage center buildings during its open summer hours, helping with special events, offering expertise and time toward upkeep and maintenance, assisting with membership mailings and newsletters or serving on the board of directors, volunteers are needed and welcome. EPHC seeks memberships and volunteers from the entire area it serves – Erskine, Fertile, Fosston, Gully, Lengby, McIntosh, Mentor, Winger and surrounding townships within East Polk County are all a significant part of the continued growth and success of EPHC. To become a member and to volunteer, contact the Heritage Center at 435-6136 (leave a message) or visit us on Face Book and our website at www.eastpolkheritage.org.