Curious Minnesota

Who were the Minnesotans on board the Titanic?

When the Titanic went down 114 years ago this month, there were 35 Minnesotans on board. Sixteen of them survived, including newlyweds on their way back from a European honeymoon and a young Duluth woman traveling on her own. Reporter Christa Lawler shares their stories with host Erica Pearson.

What’s the science behind ice thickness and when is it safe to drive on a lake?

Back in the 1970s, a Canadian ice researcher developed a formula to determine how thick lake ice needed to be for logging trucks to drive across. It helps inform the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' ice safety guidelines today. Reporter Kim Hyatt talks with host Erica Pearson about the history and science of ice roads.

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.