The Legacy of the Lakes Museum documents decades of this shared heritage and displays it for young and old; year-round resident or snow bird; environmentalists, fishers, or boaters. MLR staff had the pleasure of visiting the Museum in Alexandria this October.
There are a lot of boats at this museum, but it is far more than a storage unit. Each display tells little-known stories about the circumstances that produced each boat, and the unique culture that formed around Minnesotans’ shared passion for the water.
They are also sure to keep it fresh with new rotations and exhibits, so there’s always something new to discover.
From “Amphicars” (cars that could traverse roads AND waters) to flying saucer-inspired watercraft, you will be sucked into the past and learn about unique periods in Minnesota’s lake culture.
They also have a community paddle design contest each year, where dozens of artists create unique works of art using a basic canoe paddle. There was stained glass, painting, engraving, and even one covered in fish scales! After displaying them over the summer, the Museum auctions them off to community members as part of their annual fundraising gala.
At the Legacy of the Lakes Museum you can learn about boats from the Space Age, luxurious wooden cruisers that shuttled around the rich and powerful in the 19th century, and grand resorts that supported lake communities across the Northland.
The museum’s educational opportunities for children, and preservation of their beautiful natural shoreline, demonstrated a deep commitment to community, and our shared role as lake lovers.
Thanks to the staff, Sara and Andy, who took time to show us around and share their knowledge and passion for their lake community. MLR is excited to continue working with the Legacy of the Lakes Museum in the future. Stay tuned for more!
Check out the Legacy of the Lakes website to plan your trip!