History and Art, Beauty and Water - Visit Red Wing, Minnesota
Published: Monday, August 9, 2021
Let’s turn back the hands of time to 1902, a period where only the rich and famous could afford a personal watercraft with an engine. That same year, Red Wing Motor Company Boats and Motors began operation, going through a series of phases in ownership and management up until 1979.
Just steps from the Mississippi River in Red Wing, MN, you can find the Red Wing Marine Museum that displays restored Red Wing Thorobred marine engines, outboard motors, fishing tackle, photographs, documents, and other river-related items. This facility depicts one of the oldest manufacturing boat motor industries in the United States. As you stroll through the former 1865 Water Works building, the nostalgia will remind you of all the wonderful memories that are created with water and a watercraft.
Yes, the river is calling! And it’s calling you to choose Red Wing, Minnesota, for your next adventure. Multiple marinas along the Mississippi River in Red Wing offer transient docks accommodating an overnight stay for boats of all sizes. At the "Big Turn" in the majestic waterway, you will find Ole Miss Marina.
The “Big Turn” is known as the sharpest bend in the river for barge traffic, gathering onlookers at Bay Point Park. Visitors and residents spend time walking the paved path along the riverfront or sitting in the park swings watching the tugboats strategically make the turn. The Lil Charley tugboat is one of the local favorites. Individuals of all ages wave to the captain while the tug floats by. From time to time, you may find Lil Charley tied firmly to a cleat behind the Red Wing Grain building just south of the historic Red Wing Boat House Village.
It’s easy to immerse yourself in the activity on the water, but don’t overlook the operations along the riverbank. In the 1870s, Red Wing was the number one wheat port in the world. Red Wing Grain continues to operate the main elevator located on Levee Rd, unloading and loading semi-trucks and barges. By water or by rail, you will be surrounded by an array of transit which ties to the rich history of the economic development of this town.
Creative inspiration has been passed on through many generations. Local artists fulfill their passion by working at anything from big manufacturing companies to small privately-owned photography studios. Overall, the local art scene thrives through various organizations. Visit Red Wing Arts, located within the Train Depot; Artisan Collective, located on Old West Main; Art Reach, located on 3rd St; or the Anderson Center, located north of town on Hwy 61 to enjoy art exhibits and sculptures, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces.
From the beautiful bluffs, various outdoor activities, historic sites, and world-famous boots, you’re sure to experience a one-of-a-kind getaway. Don’t delay, make your reservation at Ole Miss Marina today!
www.red-wing.org/499/ole-miss-marina
A version of this article appeared in the Summer Issue (July/August) 2021 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.
tags: Destination
