Curious Minnesota

The story behind Basshenge, one musician’s monumental ode to his instrument

You’ve heard of Stonehenge in England ― but what about Minnesota’s own Basshenge? Reporter Alicia Eler shares its story with host Erica Pearson. The 2001 piece of public art celebrates an instrument — the double bass. Located off Hwy. 11 west of International Falls in the northernmost part of Minnesota, it was created by a musician who spent his later years in the area.

What’s the history of the Fort Snelling Unorganized Territory and the Whipple Building?

The Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, the federal government headquarters for U.S. Immigration Court and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, isn’t part of Historic Fort Snelling, but it sits on a small, unincorporated swath of land known as the Fort Snelling Unorganized Territory. Reporter Chris Vondracek talks with host Erica Pearson about the troubled history of that land, including the first arrival of the U.S. government to this area.

Introducing Essential Minnesota

A special treat for Curious Listeners: Check out the latest episode of the Minnesota Star Tribune's newest podcast, Essential Minnesota. Even with the announcement that Operation Metro Surge is coming to an end, many Minnesotans are still in hiding.  Our reporters visit with one family who has been wondering when it will be safe to come out again.

What's the history of the abandoned Cold War station in Finland, MN?

An abandoned Air Force station on Lookout Mountain above Lake Superior has become a ghost town. But during the Cold War, it was seen as a crucial spot to watch the skies in case of a Russian attack. Reporter Christa Lawler talks with host Erica Pearson about the station and Minnesota's once-secret Cold War history.

How 'Bachelormania' once swept the town of Herman, Minnesota

“Wanted: A Few Good Women.” That’s how a 1994 Associated Press story about the west-central Minnesota town of Herman began. The tale of the town with 78 bachelors and fewer than a dozen unmarried women became an international media sensation. Jenny Berg caught up with some of those erstwhile eligible bachelor farmers and shares their stories with host Erica Pearson.