Trending
I recently visited Fort Ridgely because I wanted to learn more about the history of this important place in southern Minnesota. Instead, I left feeling very sad and disappointed.
What I found was heartbreaking. An estimated 75 to 80 percent of the historical plaques and signs at the site have been destroyed or are no longer there. Without those plaques, visitors have very little information to explain what happened at Fort Ridgely or why this place is important to Minnesota's history.
I also understand that the site is maintained by the Minnesota Historical Society. If that is the case, I have to ask: Where is the commitment to preserving and educating people about our history?
The situation is even more disappointing when you consider other historic sites in the area, including the Harkin Store, which is no longer available to visitors. These places are not just buildings and plaques. They are pieces of our history. They tell the stories of the people who lived, worked, struggled and died here. Once that history is allowed to disappear, we cannot simply replace it.
I believe the Minnesota Historical Society has a responsibility to maintain these sites so that future generations can visit them and actually understand what they are seeing.
Southern Minnesota has an incredible history, and we should be proud of it. Our historic sites deserve better care, better maintenance and better attention.
Minnesota Historical Society, please do better. Our history deserves to be preserved, not forgotten.
Pamela Wester
New Ulm