10.a Scandia Heritage Alliance Updates Staff Report
Date of Meeting: May 21, 2024
For: Honorable Mayor and Council
From: Kyle Morell, City Administrator
Subject: Scandia Heritage Alliance Update
Background:
Susan Rodsjo of the Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) will be at the meeting to update the City
Council on the following three items:
1) Audience Analysis – The SHA hired a public relations firm to conduct focus groups and an
online survey. The final report from those events is attached
2) Heritage Partnership Grant Application - The text of the grant application is attached.
Sue and I attended the Minnesota Historical Society's Zoom meeting, where applicants had
three minutes to present their applications. Despite our application not being selected this
time, we were strongly encouraged to reapply next year.
3) America in Bloom Level 3 “Celebrate your Community” Assessment – The City’s
participation in the America in Bloom assessment is a requirement of the $25,000 grant the
SHA received from the Canadian Pacific Railway for landscaping at the arts and heritage
center. Two consultants will be touring Scandia June 12-15 to assess Scandia and write a
report on suggested areas for improvement. Attached are the America in Bloom 2024
Metrics for Communities. The SHA has paid for the assessment and will host the
consultants next month. They have also prepared the required community profile, which is
also attached.
A summary of the America in Bloom Level 2 Assessment can be found below.
https://americainbloom.org/abc-community-programs/
The America in Bloom Level 3: Celebrate Your Community assessment provides a
complete roadmap for success by acknowledging and celebrating the big and small things
you are doing to transform your community.
Communities involved in Level 3 receive an in-person visit by two America in
Bloom Advisors – specially-trained professionals – to tour your community, meet
leaders and volunteers, provide coaching and mentoring, and prepare a detailed
evaluation that offers comprehensive recommendations for community
transformation. Feedback from past participants include rave reviews for our
consultation and reports, including comments like “outstanding value,” “detailed,”
and “inspiring.”
You’ll receive:
Free monthly newsletter
Unlocked access to free online resources
Access to two America in Bloom Advisors
Full Community Improvement Report
Eligibility for National Awards
Participation certificate to recognize your local efforts
Access to customizable template for signs and banners
As a Level 3: Celebrate Your Community participant, you’ll have the opportunity to
earn national awards, a proven way to inspire volunteer efforts and encourage local
engagement.
Attachments:
Water Tower Barn Scandia Audience Analysis
Heritage Partnership Grant Application Text
2024 America In Bloom Metrics of Communities
Community Profile
Audience Analysis Report
Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center
April 30, 2024
Table of contents
• Executive Summary ........................................................................ 2
• Project Background ........................................................................ 3
• Methods of Collecting Information ............................................... 3-4
• Survey Highlights............................................................................ 4-5
• Focus Group Insights ...................................................................... 5-7
• Demographics ............................................................................... 7-8
• Next Steps ...................................................................................... 9
• Appendix A: Survey Questions ....................................................... 10-17
• Appendix B: Survey Results ............................................................ 18-62
• Appendix C: Press Release ............................................................. 63
• Appendix D: Country Messenger Newspaper Article ..................... 64
• Appendix E: Pioneer Press Newspaper Article ............................... 65
• Appendix F: Flyer ........................................................................... 66
• Appendix G: Facebook Posts .......................................................... 67
• Appendix H: Focus Group Invite .................................................... 68
• Appendix I: Focus Group Detailed Notes ....................................... 69-80
This publication was made possible in part by the people of Minnesota through a grant funded by an appropriation to the
Minnesota Historical Society from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Any views, findings, opinions, conclusions,
or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the
State of Minnesota, the Minnesota Historical Society, or the Minnesota Historic Resources Advisory Committee.
Executive Summary
Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) hired Jill Brown Public Relations to conduct focus groups and an online
survey to help align community needs with planning for exhibitions and programming at the proposed
WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA arts and heritage center in Scandia, Minnesota. The goal was to gather
feedback from diverse stakeholders and future guests to prioritize a list of potential exhibit topics and
amenities. Input will help develop a long-range interpretation plan.
A total of 395 surveys were completed. Of these, 267 are from residents who indicated a Scandia,
Marine on St. Croix, or May Township zip code (Marine, May and Scandia are sister communities with
overlapping zip codes).
Scandia is synonymous with Swedish culture in many ways. The town’s Scandinavian roots go back to
being home of the first Swedish settlement in Minnesota. For this project, two focus groups of heritage
families tapped into a wealth of ideas to bring the story of Swedish descendants to life in the proposed
heritage center. Swedish themes also were prevalent in the online survey.
In a list of 18 history topics tested, the No. 1 choice among over 400 survey and focus group participants
when asked to select their favorite five topics was, “The history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota Tribes
in Scandia and Marine on St. Croix.” In a question to rate 18 possible offerings, nearly 75% of Survey
Monkey respondents said they would visit “biking/walking trails around the wetlands with stories of
Ojibwe and Dakota history and culture.” This was second only to an outdoor coffee shop. On a ranking
of activities for children, the biking/walking trail with stories came in third.
A focus group was held with three local residents who have Native American ancestry (two Dakota and
one Omaha). They live and/or work in Scandia, Marine on St. Croix, and Franconia Township
(immediately south and north of Scandia). All three participants expressed great desire – and pride -- in
pursuing a project to research Native American history and culture from the Scandia-Marine area and to
share this history and culture in interpretive displays along a wetland trail connecting the arts and
heritage center to City Hall. They would also like to see this history shared in an interpretive display
inside the Water Tower Barn Museum to help build community connectedness. They were pleased –
and surprised – at the strong interest in this history from the community. All three are willing to sit on
an Indigenous Advisory Council to guide the research and interpretive work. Additional community
members, who had scheduling conflicts with the focus group date, may also contribute to ongoing
efforts.
A focus group with recent immigrants and open-ended questions in the survey show interest in sharing
the historic Swedish immigration story along with present-day immigration stories from other regions of
the world. What are the similarities to the Swedish experiences? How can we celebrate the richness of
different cultures in the region today?
The 395-person survey and four focus groups provide ample data to point to an audience appetite for
Scandia's broad history and a desire to celebrate the present day’s mixture of cultural influences.
Scandia is home of rich history and culture worthy of celebrating.
The data and leads garnered in the audience analysis project, which ran from February through March
2024, will inform the next stages of developing an exhibit plan and amenities for the WATER TOWER
BARN SCANDIA arts and heritage center project. The full list of survey questions is provided in Appendix
A, and a broader summary of survey results is in Appendix B.
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Project Background
The Minnesota Legislature appropriated $2.2 million in the 2023 Capital Investment Bill for the creation
of WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA, an arts and heritage center that pivots around the historic Water
Tower Barn Tankhouse built in c. 1895 by Scandia Mercantile owner and Swedish immigrant Frank Lake.
The barn provided water to early residents and businesses. It is believed to be the state’s only remaining
tankhouse. Scandia Heritage Alliance is raising the remaining funds needed to build the project while
simultaneously developing the interpretation plan for the museum component of the center, which will
be housed inside the barn.
Plans for WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA include a demonstration of a functioning tankhouse and
windmill, displays on Scandia's history, an indoor stage, an outdoor amphitheater, a water garden play
area, a wetland overlook and trails, and a summer café.
The audience analysis project and report improved Scandia Heritage Alliance’s ability to:
•Identify potential audiences
•Create collaborations that meet community needs
•Align community needs with exhibitions and programming
•Prepare to develop a long-range interpretation plan
Methods of Collecting Information
The Scandia Heritage Alliance Heritage Committee, including Committee Chair Pat Borchert and Board
Chair Susan Rodsjo, worked with the consultants to develop a survey.
Online Survey
Survey Monkey was used to create an online survey asking participants to indicate their interest levels in
18 historical topics and 18 center offerings. Additional questions were asked about behaviors that will
help design the guest experience, such as preferred days and hours of operation. The survey was open
to the general public March 3-25, 2024, and promoted using several methods:
•A news release was distributed to local media (see Appendix C). A front-page story ran March 6 in
the local paper, The Scandia-Marine Country Messenger (see Appendix D). The Pioneer Press
printed a March 18 story in the Washington County edition (see Appendix E).
•Flyers were created that volunteers posted around town and emailed to contacts (see Appendix F).
•Several social media posts were created and shared by friends and colleagues (see Appendix G).
Survey questions asked if participants needed a printed version or a survey in another language. A
handful of people requested a hard copy. Those were mailed out, but only one was returned (but this
respondent missed the deadline to be included in the results). No one asked for a different language.
The response was excellent, with 395 completed surveys.
Focus Groups
The committee identified three target audiences for the focus groups:
•Heritage families in Scandia
•Native American residents
•Recent immigrants
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Brainstorming sessions identified potential candidates. The consultants drafted a flyer and script to aid
in recruitment (see Appendix H). The Alliance volunteers contacted people, and the consultants used
their personal connections to make inroads in the Native American and Hmong populations.
Four focus groups were conducted, each with seven or fewer people. Heritage family sessions were held
Feb. 29 and March 23. Recent immigrants met March 25. Native American residents met April 1. Focus
groups used various tools, including a gallery walk with notepads on the various history topics. Because
of a snowstorm, Zoom was used with the recent immigrants. The Native American group focused
primarily on how to include their culture in the center.
Survey Highlights
(Percentages are rounded, full report in Appendix B)
Top Exhibit Topics
Respondents selected their top 5 choices from a list of 18 topics
•The history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota (57%)
•Cultural parallels between historic Ojibwe and Swedish culture (40%)
•The three immigrant men from Sweden who established the first Swedish settlement in
Minnesota (38%)
•Early women entrepreneurs (38%)
•The Water Tower Barn impact on the area (33%)
•The story of Frank Lake (Scandia founder) and development of entrepreneurial businesses (31%)
•The immigrant story (30%)
Top Features/Amenities
Respondents indicted which features/amenities they would be likely to visit or attend at the center
(18 choices – no limit on number selected)
•Outdoor coffee shop (79%)
•Bike/walk trails around wetlands with Ojibwe and Dakota history/culture (74%)
•Scandia history displays in the barn (73%)
•Live music in the amphitheater (68%)
•Walking paths/peaceful seating near wetlands and rain gardens with interpretation on clean
water (66%)
•Live music in the barn (64%)
•Theater in the outdoor amphitheater (55%)
•Art shows - local and regional artists (51%)
Top Kids’ Activities
Half of the survey respondents have children or grandchildren under age 12 who they would consider
bringing to WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA. Following are the most selected kids’/family activities (no
limit on number of choices)
•Swedish treats, ice cream, snacks at an outdoor café (74%)
•Water garden play area (70%)
•Bike/walk trails around the wetlands with interpretation about Ojibwe and Dakota history (65%)
•Family movies in the outdoor amphitheater or indoor barn (56%)
•Children’s theater in the outdoor amphitheater or indoor barn (55%)
•Art classes for kids (54%)
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Special Things about Scandia to include in the Center (Open ended)
•Scandia history
•Swedish heritage
•Natural history / geology / native plant life / connection to St. Croix River
•Community / social gatherings
•Indigenous history
•Stories of long-time resident families
•Immigrant history/heritage
Scandia is Associated with What? (Open ended)
•Swedish/Scandinavian heritage
•Immigrants
•Farming
•St. Croix River
•Natural beauty / nature
Attendance Expectations
•Up to five visits per year (41%)
•Weekend afternoons are the most convenient time (74%)
•Saturdays work best (84%)
•Paying fees would not prohibit participation (72%)
Topics to Avoid in a Heritage Center
The open-ended survey question garnered 76 responses, with many in these general areas:
•Most common comments pertained to keeping politics out
•A few comments asked to avoid talking about climate change
•Any agenda associated with historical interpretation
•Don’t duplicate the history shared at Gammelgården Museum (located across the street, this
museum focuses on the history of Swedish immigration from 1850 to 1880)
Open-ended Survey Responses
The open-ended survey responses indicate broad support for the arts and heritage center, with a small
number of naysayers expressing concern over the project cost (it was not communicated in the survey
that SHA is fundraising to cover the cost of building the arts and heritage center). The responses
generated ideas for other possible areas of focus. The full list of responses to open-ended questions is
included in Appendix B with the larger survey results.
Focus Group Insights
Four distinct focus groups met to discuss different aspects of the proposed WATER TOWER BARN
SCANDIA arts and heritage center. Two groups represented local heritage families – they are
descendants of original settlers and farm families. Next, a group of recent immigrants met to discuss
their perspectives and experiences on locating in Scandia or the Twin Cities metro area. Two participants
live locally in Scandia, one in neighboring Forest Lake, and two in inner-ring suburbs. Members of this
5
group were from Laos, Togo, Kenya, Norway, and Germany. Finally, a group of local residents/business
owners with Native American ancestry met and represented Dakota and Omaha peoples.
Heritage Focus Groups
The format for heritage groups was centered around the shared experience of growing up in Scandia
and having generational stories to share about civic and cultural life. These residents told stories about
themselves, their parents and grandparents, and even exchanged information about town events that
some members were unaware of. Members of these focus groups participated in a paper version of the
survey, and further participated in a gallery walk where they wrote questions and responded to postings
around the room. These groups were structured around the story of Scandia from 1880 to the present
day (the timeframe associated with the start of Scandia’s commercial center and not covered by the
interpretive focus at Gammelgården Museum across the street).
Members of the heritage groups found shared energy on several display topics:
•Cultural life around clubs (Sew and Sew, Rod and Gun, Lions)
•Glory days of men’s fast-pitch softball with local all-stars
•Building homes with catalog kits and local raw materials such as red brick and limestone
•Tools and lifestyle of logging, agriculture
•A day in the life with family trips to the mercantile and party phone lines, and
•Elim Lutheran Church
Participants offered information on where to get display materials, such as softball uniforms, an original
post office desk, and other memorabilia.
Recent Immigrant Focus Group
The recent immigrant group met by Zoom because of a snowstorm. In sharing their arrival stories, the
similarities became clear. Immigrating to a new place caused a mixture of feelings, challenges, and
opportunities -- really no different than the Swedish immigrants from previous centuries. Participants
welcome sharing and celebrating their cultures in the new center.
The format of this focus group provided opportunities to share how they view their membership in the
community and to discuss their cultural traditions, food, holidays, clothing, and other unique aspects of
their experience as immigrants. Artwork, farming traditions, dance, and interpretation were discussed
with a view that these topics would be of interest to visitors of the center.
When asked if there were things to grab for teachable moments at the new center:
•Gratias said Africa has many intricate and different cultures, not one big one. She encourages
people to ask questions. The new center might help people learn how to be curious respectfully.
•Lynne (Director Emeritus of Gammelgården Museum in Scandia) offered music and food as a
way to connect – and as a means to preserve and celebrate culture.
•Bee said remembering where we come from, and he suggested using art as a way to tell the
stories. He shared a tapestry from his Hmong culture, which SHA Board Chair Susan Rodsjo
commented feels similar to historic Swedish folk art. The group talked about the possibility of
sharing tapestries from various cultures represented in Scandia and Minnesota.
•Christine said Africa is too often portrayed as poor, dirty, suffering, starving children. She’d like
to see more of what life really is there. Focus on what is beautiful in the culture.
Members are interested in helping the new center locate pieces of art, clothing, musical instruments,
and people who are performers.
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Native American Focus Group
The focus group with Native American residents focused on gauging interest in and discussing ideas for
sharing Ojibwe and Dakota history and culture at the center. Participants discussed how the land was
used before settlers inhabited the area and also shared stories about how they grew up in at a time
when their heritage was not something to be shared. Members of this group agreed to participate in a
future advisory panel to direct research on Indigenous history and culture in the Scandia-Marine area, to
guide design of interpretive signage on the wetland trail, and to direct themes for exhibits and
performances.
A few of the key take-aways from the Native American focus group include:
•Participants strongly support sharing Indigenous history and culture along the wetland trail and
expressed pride that our community is pursuing this project.
•Along the wetland trail and/or near the rain gardens, they would like to include interpretation
about native plants, area geology, the value of wetlands, and the natural environment of
Scandia before logging (e.g., was Scandia prairie, oak savannah, white pine forest, other?)
•They support including a display on Native American history and culture inside the Water Tower
Barn Museum to build community and share the area’s full history.
•If SHA and the City of Scandia win a grant to study Indigenous history and culture in Scandia-
Marine, they would prefer that two researchers are hired: One to study Dakota history, and one
to focus on Ojibwe history. They talked about ways to share both cultures along the wetland
trail – perhaps through separate interpretive displays for each culture.
Copies of notes from the four focus group meetings and results from the gallery walks can be found in
Appendix I -- Focus Group Insights.
Scandia Area Demographics
STAT 2022 American Community
Survey 5-Year Estimates
Notes from Scandia Survey
Population size 3,984 Scandia
664 Marine on St. Croix
2,670 May Township
Total: 7,318
68% of survey takers list ZIP
codes from Scandia, Marine on
St. Croix or May Township
Females and Males Scandia Female: 1,962,
Male 2,003.
Marine on St. Croix Female:
378, Male: 343.
May Township Female: 1,316,
Male: 1,351.
More females (68.38%) for all
survey takers
Median Household Income $97,159 Scandia
$135,000 Marine on St. Croix
$132,000 May Township
Education Bachelor’s degree or higher:
40.9% Scandia
70% Marine on St. Croix
54.6% May Township
71.24% for all survey takers
have bachelor’s degree or
higher
Median Age 46 Scandia
57 Marine on St. Croix
54.1 May Township
Largest group in survey was 56-
65 (24.13%)
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Languages Spoken at Home Scandia 97.8% English only,
1.8% Spanish.
Marine on St. Croix 95.7%
English only, 0.9% Spanish, 2.5%
other Indo-European, 0.7%
Asian and Pacific Islander.
May Township 94.2% English
only, 2.7% Spanish, 1.4% Other
Indo-European, 1.7% Asian and
Pacific Islander.
Native and Foreign Born 1.3% Scandia
2.1% Marine on St. Croix
2.6% May Township
Population over 65 26.8% Scandia
32.6% Marine on St. Croix
27.4% May Township
30.46% for all survey takers
What is the most popular
industry for employed
population 16 and over?
Educational services, health
care and social assistance:
28.7% Scandia
26.4% Marine on St. Croix
21.9% May Township
What is the median gross rent
in Scandia?
$899 (+/- $857) Scandia
$1,750 Marine on St. Croix
N/A May Township
What is the homeownership
rate?
86.7% (+/- 8.7%) Scandia
95.8% Marine on St. Croix
98.9% May Township
What is the percentage of
children? (Under 18)
26.7% Scandia with
Under 5: 5.9%
5-14: 17.3%
15-17: 3.6%
18.9% Marine on St. Croix with
Under 5: 2.6%
5-14: 11.8%
15-17: 4.4%
17.8% May Township with
Under 5: 3.6%
5-15: 10.2%
15-17: 4%
Race and Ethnicity? (Based on
2020 Decennial Census)
3 communities combined:
American Indian and Alaska
Native: 15 individuals
Asian: 54
Black or African American: 19
Hispanic or Latino: 121
Not Hispanic or Latino (white
alone): 6,829
Other Race: 55
Two or More Races: 310
All survey takers:
American Indian and Alaska
Native: 10 individuals
Asian: 2
Black or African American: 1
Hispanic of Latino: 7
Not Hispanic or Latino (white
alone): 318
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Next Steps
Scandia Heritage Alliance and the City of Scandia applied for a Heritage Partnership Grant from the
Minnesota Historical Society to research Indigenous history and culture in the Scandia-Marine on St.
Croix area and develop an interpretive plan for an Indigenous Heritage Trail. The proposed location is a
wetland trail that would connect the Scandia Community Center to the future arts and heritage center.
If this grant request is not successful, the partners will explore other grant opportunities or apply at a
later date.
Scandia Heritage Alliance plans to apply for a large grant from the Minnesota Historical Society to
develop its Exhibit Plan for the arts and heritage center. The results of this audience analysis will guide
the selection of topics for historic displays. Additional planning is underway for development of exhibits
and center amenities.
In the survey, dozens of people indicated interest in joining an email list, volunteering time, donating
money, and donating talents. All need to be followed up and acted on.
The focus group conversations tapped into many local resources for stories and artifacts that will be
pursued.
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Appendix A – Survey Questions
Thank you!
Scandia Heritage Alliance Survey Scandia Heritage Alliance requests your input on what to feature in a proposed arts and heritage center. Scandia Heritage Alliance has received funds to construct an arts and heritage center that will celebrate the history of Scandia. The project will include restoring the City’s original windmill-powered water tower barn, plus an outdoor amphitheater, a water garden, and a wetland overlook with interpretive markers along adjacent trails. The goal is to highlight Scandia as a uniquely interesting and vibrant place to live in and visit through the preservation of our history, culture, arts, and rural character. We would like you to help us by answering questions included in this survey. You may choose not to answer any of the questions below, but the more you assist, the better informed we will be as the project moves forward. Your information will be protected and not shared with anyone except those involved in the project. Thank you for your help! To learn more, go to https://scandiaheritage.org/water-tower-barn-project. Scandia Heritage Alliance
NEXT
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Scandia Heritage Alliance requests your input on what to
feature in a proposed arts and heritage center
1.Would you like a paper copy of the survey? If yes, please provide your name and address.
2.Would you like this survey translated to a different language? If yes, please provide your name and
address.
WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA will share stories from Scandia, Minnesota, including its transition from
subsistence agriculture (growing enough to feed your family) to becoming a small center of commerce in the
1880s. The Water Tower Barn was integral to this transition, providing water to local homes and businesses in the
Scandia Village Center. The neighboring Gammelgarden Museum focuses on Swedish immigration from 1850 –
1880, and WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA will focus primarily on the years before and after.
Please rate your interest in exhibits that share stories on the following topics.
3 The three immigrant men from Sweden who established the first
Swedish settlement in Minnesota near Hay Lake in 1850-- and the
granite monument raised in their honor in 1900.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
4 The history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota people who inhabited
this area before European settlement.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
5 The story of Frank Lake (Scandia founder) and development of
entrepreneurial businesses, e.g., the Farmers Store/Mercantile,
cooperative creamery, banks, blacksmith, ladies hat store, feed store,
butcher shops, general stores, etc.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
6 The Water Tower Barn: Why was it built? What is a “tankhouse”? How
did the windmill work? How did wood water pipes deliver water to
neighbors? How did access to water change life for Scandia businesses
and residents?
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
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7 Cultural parallels between historic Ojibwe and Swedish culture as told
by Melissa Walls of Anishinaabe and Swedish heritage: Love of the
forest and land, similar floral designs in clothing, birch bark container
designs, birch trees at the entrance to event centers, etc.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
8 Failed bank robbery attempt in 1914: “Yeggmen” attempted to blow up
the vault at Scandia State Bank, hiding their dynamite on the Soo Line
Bridge to Wisconsin, and were arrested in St. Paul.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
9 Water Tower Barn craftsmanship: Ornate details; post-and-beam
design; use of tamarack (a rot-resistant wood typical of Swedish
construction); how the tower withstood extreme wind power.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
10 Infamous Chicago gangster John Dillinger’s Big Marine Lake cabin
hideout during Prohibition.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
11 History of Scandia post office and display of postal artifacts, including
the oak desk, brass PO boxes, stamps, postcards, historic mailbox.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
12 Early women entrepreneurs: Hilda Mattson owned an extravagant hat
shop – popular with Scandia ladies; Ella Kuno and Myrtle Shalander ran
general stores with their husbands, etc.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
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13 The progression of agriculture in Scandia. Early farm tools brought here
by immigrants; steam engine threshing machine parties; farmers pooling
resources to build cooperative creamery.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
14 The Immigrant Story: Scandia’s early settlers were Swedish and came
here for farming and the area’s natural beauty. Who came next? Who
are Scandia’s recent immigrants? What are their stories, and how do
they describe their shared love for the land and water? For example,
Hmong families have settled here to farm, and they value the area’s
lakes, St. Croix River, and fishing.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
15 Logging in the St. Croix River Valley and beyond – a common winter
occupation for Scandia farmers.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
16 Scandia’s phone company and the operators who kept residents
connected. These ladies could often answer questions such as where to
find local residents, who had died when the church bells chimed, etc.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
17 Vice President Walter Mondale’s love of Scandia (had a Scandia home
with wife Joan) and his involvement in passing the Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act, making the St. Croix River a national park.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
18 History of hamlets and towns that are now part of Scandia: Vasa/Otis,
Copas, Otisville, Big Marine Lake, Bonny Lake. All were originally part of
Marine Mills (now Marine on St. Croix).
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
13
19 Social Clubs and Gatherings: Residents were actively involved in the
community -- Hay Lake Jolly Club, Goose Lake Social Club, Big Lake Good
Cheer Club, Women’s Missionary Society, coronet band, men’s fast-pitch
softball league, 4-H clubs, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, basket and pie socials,
etc.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
20 Famous Swedish actress and Casablanca star Ingrid Bergman’s visit to
Scandia during WWII – Created a film to promote Swedish heritage in
Minnesota showcasing visits in Scandia and neighboring towns, including
Elim Church.
Very Interested 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Not Interested
21.Thank you for rating your interest in each of the different topics. If you had to pick your top five, which would
you choose?
The three immigrant men who
established the first Swedish settlement
in MN
The history and culture of Ojibwe and
Dakota
The story of Frank Lake and
development of entrepreneurial
businesses
The Water Tower Barn impact on area
Parallels between Ojibwe and Swedish
culture
Failed bank robbery 1914
Water Tower Barn craftsmanship
Chicago gangster John Dillinger’s Big
Marine Lake cabin
History of post office
Early women entrepreneurs
Progression of agriculture
The immigrant story
Logging in the St. Croix River Valley
Scandia’s phone company and the
operators
VP Walter Mondale’s love of Scandia
History of hamlets and towns
Social clubs and gatherings
Ingrid Bergman’s visit during WWII
22.Which of the following features of WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA would you be likely to visit or attend?
(Choose as many as you’d like.)
Scandia history displays in the barn
Water Garden play area (splash pad)
Bike/walk trails around the wetlands
with stories of Ojibwe and Dakota
history and culture
Outdoor coffee shop with Swedish
pancakes, ice cream, and other treats
Walking paths/peaceful seating near
wetlands and rain gardens with
interpretation on clean water
Theater in the outdoor amphitheater
Theater in the barn
Live music in the amphitheater
Live music in the barn
Outdoor movies in the amphitheater
Movies in the barn
Art classes
Art shows – local and regional artists
Art shows – national artists
Pottery shows or sales
Swing dancing events in the barn
Swing dancing lessons in the barn
Square dancing events in the barn
14
23.Do you have children or grandchildren under age 12 who you would consider bringing to WATER
TOWER BARN SCANDIA? Yes / No
24.If yes, which of the following WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA kids’ activities interest you? Select one or
more than one.
Water garden play area (splash pad)
Bike/walk trails around the wetlands
with interpretation about Ojibwe and
Dakota history
Family movies in the outdoor
amphitheater or Water Tower Barn
Children’s theater in the outdoor
amphitheater or indoor barn
Swedish pancakes, waffles, ice cream,
and other snacks at the outdoor café
Art classes for kids
Theater day camps in the summer
Environmental day camps in the
summer
Art camps in the summer
Writing camps in the summer
Group bike trips from Scandia to William
O’Brien State Park on the Gateway Trail
28.How often do you attend cultural events, take cultural classes, or visit cultural sites in the St. Croix
Valley between Taylors Falls and St. Croix Falls to the north and Stillwater to the south? Examples
include visits to Gammelgarden Museum, Washington County Heritage Center, Franconia Sculpture Park,
Festival Theatre or Frosted Glass productions, St. Croix Pottery Tour, music events at Rustic Roots Winery
or Brookside Bar and Grill, art classes at Marine Mills Folk School or ArtReach St. Croix, events at Osceola
Art Barn, etc.
I have yet to visit this part of the St.
Croix Valley
1-2 events per year
3-5 times per year
6-10 times per year
More than 10 times per year
29.How often do you estimate that you would visit our center during open months (May through December),
provided that new exhibits or events were regularly offered?
Never because
________________________________
1-2 times per year
3-5 times per year
6-10 times per year
More than 10 times per year
30.What times work well for you to visit cultural/heritage centers? (Choose all convenient times)
Weekday mornings
Weekday lunchtime
Weekday afternoons
Weekday dinner hour
Weekday evenings
Weekend mornings
Weekend lunchtime
Weekend afternoons
Weekend dinner time
Weekend evenings
31.Which days of the week work well for you to visit cultural/heritage centers? (Choose all convenient times)
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
32.Would paying fees keep you from participating in an event or exhibit?Yes / No
15
33.What is the ZIP code where you live -- or for your cabin near Scandia-Marine?
55073 (Scandia)
55047 (Marine on St. Croix and May
Township)
55038 (Hugo and May Township)
55082 (Stillwater)
55025 (Forest Lake)
55013 (Chisago City)
55045 (Lindstrom)
55012 (Center City)
55074 (Shafer and Franconia)
55084 (Taylors Falls)
54020 (Osceola, WI)
OTHER __________________
OPTIONAL QUESTIONS:
Would you like to share your contact information for future updates or follow-up questionnaires?
34.What is your name?________________________________________________
35.What is your email address?________________________________________________
36.What is your phone number?________________________________________________
37.What is your mailing address?________________________________________________
38.Would you like to be added to our email list to receive updates about events and news? We promise not to
over communicate, and you can opt out at any time. Yes / No
39.Do you have a preferred method of being contacted?
Email
US Mail
Text
Phone
Social Media
I do not wish to be contacted
Project Assistance Questions:
40.Are you interested in donating time to our project as a volunteer?Yes / No
41.Are you interested in donating money to our capital campaign?Yes / No
42.Are you interested in donating professional services to our capital campaign?Yes / No
43.If yes, what is your professional specialty? _________________________________
Demographic information:
44.What is your age (Circle a range)? 18-24 25-35 36-45 46-55 56-65
66-75 76-85 86-95 95+
45.What is your gender?
Male
Female
I identify differently than male or female
I prefer not to say
46.What is your education level?
Not a high school graduate GED
High school
Some college
Associate degree
Bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
Doctorate degree
16
47.OPTIONAL QUESTION:
What is your race? Select all that apply.
American Indian or Alaska Native
Asian
Black or African American
Hispanic or Latino
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
White
48.Is there something special you enjoy about Scandia that you want to ensure the center includes in the
exhibits, interpretation materials, or presentations?
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
49.When you think of Scandia, what themes or topics come to mind?
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
50.Are there topics or themes you prefer not to be presented with when visiting a heritage center?
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
51.Please feel free to share anything about this project you think we should know:
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Again, thank you for helping us thoughtfully bring this exciting new venue to Scandia!
17
Appendix B – Survey Results
(See following pages)
18
Q21 Thank you for rating your interest in each of the different
topics. If you had to pick your top five, which would you choose?
Answered: 386 Skipped: 9
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
The history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota 57.25% 221
Cultural parallels between historic Ojibwe and Swedish culture 40.41% 156
The three immigrant men from Sweden who established the first Swedish settlement in Minnesota 38.08% 147
Early women entrepreneurs 37.82% 146
The Water Tower Barn impact on area 33.42% 129
The story of Frank Lake (Scandia founder) and development of entrepreneurial businesses 30.57% 118
The immigrant story 29.79% 115
History of hamlets and towns that are now part of Scandia 29.02% 112
Infamous Chicago gangster John Dillinger’s Big Marine Lake cabin hideout during Prohibition. 28.76% 111
Logging in the St. Croix River Valley and beyond 28.50% 110
Water Tower Barn craftsmanship 28.24% 109
The progression of agriculture in Scandia 18.39% 71
Vice President Walter Mondale’s love of Scandia 15.80% 61
Failed bank robbery attempt in 1914 14.77% 57
Scandia’s phone company and the operators who kept residents connected 9.84% 38
Social clubs and gatherings 9.33% 36
History of Scandia post office and display of postal artifacts 6.74% 26
Famous Swedish actress and Casablanca star Ingrid Bergman’s visit to Scandia during WWII 5.18% 20
Total Respondents: 386
19
The history
and culture ...
Cultural
parallels...
The three
immigrant me...
Early women
entrepreneurs
The Water
Tower Barn...
The story of
Frank Lake...
The immigrant
story
History of
hamlets and...
Infamous
Chicago...
Logging in the
St. Croix Ri...
Water Tower
Barn...
The
progression ...
Vice President
Walter...
Failed bank
robbery atte...
Scandia’s
phone compan...
Social clubs
and gatherings
History of
Scandia post...
Famous Swedish
actress and...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
20
Q22 Which of the following features of WATER TOWER BARN
SCANDIA would you be likely to visit or attend? (Choose as
many as you’d like.)
Answered: 382 Skipped: 13
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
Outdoor coffee shop with Swedish pancakes, ice cream, and other treats 79.06% 302
Bike/walk trails around the wetlands with stories of Ojibwe and Dakota history and culture 74.08% 283
Scandia history displays in the barn 72.51% 277
Live music in the amphitheater 68.06% 260
Walking paths/peaceful seating near wetlands and rain gardens with interpretation on clean water 66.23% 253
Live music in the barn 63.61% 243
Theater in the outdoor amphitheater 55.24% 211
Art shows – local and regional artists 51.31% 196
Outdoor movies in the amphitheater 48.69% 186
Theater in the barn 47.38% 181
Pottery shows or sales 41.36% 158
Movies in the barn 41.10% 157
Art classes 36.13% 138
Water Garden play area (splash pad) 35.86% 137
Art shows – national artists 31.41% 120
Swing dancing lessons in the barn 22.25% 85
Swing dancing events in the barn 20.68% 79
Square dancing events in the barn 17.80% 68
Total Respondents: 382
21
Outdoor coffee
shop with...
Bike/walk
trails aroun...
Scandia
history...
Live music in
the...
Walking
paths/peacef...
Live music in
the barn
Theater in the
outdoor...
Art shows –
local and...
Outdoor movies
in the...
Theater in the
barn
Pottery shows
or sales
Movies in the
barn
Art classes
Water Garden
play area...
Art shows –
national...
Swing dancing
lessons in t...
Swing dancing
events in th...
Square dancing
events in th...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
22
TOTAL 388
Q23 Do you have children or grandchildren under age 12 who you would
consider bringing to WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA?
Answered: 388 Skipped: 7
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes 50.00% 194
No 50.00% 194
23
Q24 Which of the following WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA kids’
activities interest you? Select one or more than one.
Answered: 234 Skipped: 161
Swedish
pancakes,...
Water garden
play area...
Bike/walk
trails aroun...
Family movies
in the outdo...
Children’s
theater in t...
Art classes
for kids
Environmental
day camps in...
Art camps in
the summer
Group bike
trips from...
Theater day
camps in the...
Writing camps
in the summer
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
24
ANSWER CHOICES Q24 RESPONSES
Swedish pancakes, waffles, ice cream, and other snacks at the outdoor café 73.50% 172
Water garden play area (splash pad) 69.66% 163
Bike/walk trails around the wetlands with interpretation about Ojibwe and Dakota history 64.96% 152
Family movies in the outdoor amphitheater or Water Tower Barn 56.41% 132
Children’s theater in the outdoor amphitheater or indoor barn 54.70% 128
Art classes for kids 54.27% 127
Environmental day camps in the summer 42.31% 99
Art camps in the summer 38.03% 89
Group bike trips from Scandia to William O’Brien State Park on the Gateway Trail 33.76% 79
Theater day camps in the summer 32.48% 76
Writing camps in the summer 4.36% 57
Total: 234
25
26
Q25 Is there something special you enjoy about Scandia that you want to
ensure the center includes in the exhibits, interpretation materials, or
presentations?
Answered: 116 Skipped: 279
# RESPONSES DATE
1 The abondance of natural space and parkland. I’m curious about wellness programs in Sweden
(sauna / steam room) that could be added to our community- not sure this is the right place for
that sort of thing
3/28/2024 11:57 AM
2 Natural history and immigrant history 3/25/2024 8:05 PM
3 parks and trails, land and water conservation, river stewardship projects 3/25/2024 7:49 PM
4 I believe you have covered it. 3/25/2024 9:10 AM
5 Vets Memorial, Lutefisk Dinner, Octoberfest 3/25/2024 7:31 AM
6 Privacy 3/25/2024 6:19 AM
7 I would love to have more history on all the old foundations you can see when walking in
William o Brien, there are so many just crumbling away esp by railroad tracks
3/24/2024 8:52 PM
8 Geologic history...ice, water, trees. The truly first people: The Clovis and Dakota. Ojibwe are
from the east coast. Would the Dakota People care to build a display. Pioneer life, without a lot
of money, but not "poor".
3/24/2024 4:48 PM
9 The feeling of returning home 3/24/2024 2:48 PM
10 Natural geology 3/24/2024 12:12 PM
11 FIKA! 3/24/2024 10:49 AM
12 History of current buildings 3/24/2024 8:24 AM
13 Geologic history 3/23/2024 3:01 PM
14 Swedish immigrants established this area, my great-great-great grandparents and their families
included. They struggled for us, lived in caves and went without comforts at first. They
endured a very hard life with me and my children in mind. Please don’t water that down to
appease current pressures from ignorant people trying to change history into something
inclusive. Swedes are amazing people. Period. Honor the truth, don’t apologize for it and be
proud of it.
3/23/2024 9:32 AM
15 While I understand the Swedish connection, it would be nice to have some more modern info
about the town—how it’s changed and what is the makeup of the community (farms, housing,
businesses)
3/23/2024 7:27 AM
16 Nature walks, outdoor preserved areas, biking paths. 3/23/2024 2:13 AM
17 Different animals raised in Scandia 3/22/2024 10:17 PM
18 this is a waste 3/22/2024 10:09 PM
19 Heritage 3/22/2024 4:55 PM
20 Local nature and focus on returning original habitats (i.e., returning developed resident yards
back to prairie
3/22/2024 10:27 AM
21 The dala horse on the street signs. 3/21/2024 8:59 PM
22 How about adding indigenous food to coffee shop? 3/21/2024 1:57 PM
23 Scenic viewsheds 3/21/2024 10:07 AM
27
24 I think it would be nice to have a dedication of the city council that made this happen. 3/21/2024 8:08 AM
25 I would love community volunteer projects to help others have better lives; food shelf, prep of
food for international disasters, volunteer projects that build community
3/20/2024 3:58 PM
26 Effect of the river on Scandia heritage 3/20/2024 3:40 PM
27 connection to to croix river 3/19/2024 8:18 PM
28 History & culture 3/19/2024 6:56 PM
29 Everything has already been mentioned. 3/19/2024 4:05 PM
30 na 3/19/2024 3:59 PM
31 family stories of long time residents 3/19/2024 3:22 PM
32 Wildlife and history of the land. 3/19/2024 11:38 AM
33 Social gathers in Scandia 3/18/2024 5:19 PM
34 General history 3/18/2024 4:30 PM
35 I am glad to see the inclusion of indigenous people of the area. Are there current connections
to the original residents as well?
3/18/2024 2:56 PM
36 Textiles - weaving, wool, linen Swedish traditions 3/18/2024 1:46 PM
37 Harassing sweedes 3/18/2024 1:39 PM
38 Swedish heritage 3/18/2024 11:25 AM
39 Music and Art 3/18/2024 10:34 AM
40 Since Scandia has so many Swedish ties I think it would be cool to see how those ties
connect not only to how Scandia is today, but also how how Sweden is today. It would be fun
to see different parallels between Sweden today and Scandia today.
3/18/2024 10:20 AM
41 Our unique history 3/18/2024 10:16 AM
42 Taco Daze 3/18/2024 8:38 AM
43 The Native history is almost non existent now. I hope that changes. 3/17/2024 10:10 PM
44 I love the general history of the area and love the local/regional focus on this history group. 3/17/2024 1:24 PM
45 Peacefulness 3/17/2024 12:59 PM
46 N/A 3/17/2024 10:38 AM
47 Open spaces and rolling hills 3/17/2024 6:14 AM
48 No 3/16/2024 9:07 PM
49 I think you have covered most topics. Go talk to Brent Peterson of the wa cty historical
society. Learn from him what exhibits don’t do well. Make sure you differentiate yourself from
others.
3/16/2024 3:14 PM
50 history of the military road, settlers landing history, steamboats 3/16/2024 1:00 PM
51 History of art and music 3/16/2024 12:36 PM
52 Don and Deloris Peterson 3/16/2024 10:41 AM
53 Coordinate with Gammelgarden 3/16/2024 9:47 AM
54 Strong community 3/16/2024 9:46 AM
55 History—Objewe Swedish culture, logging 3/16/2024 8:59 AM
56 Learn about long time residents/families and the names who have helped make Scandia
“Scandia” through the years. The “old timers” families and histories
3/16/2024 8:31 AM
57 NA 3/16/2024 7:22 AM
28
58 You have included so many! Glad to see Indigenous history but are native communities
participating in the facilitation?
3/15/2024 8:16 PM
59 Info about the demographic/cultural change since first settlement to current 3/15/2024 7:45 PM
60 The potential exhibitions and events you suggested are all terrific. I hope you succeed in
preserving the barn and realizing them.realizing
3/15/2024 5:57 PM
61 Everything Frank Lake, early businessmen, business owners 3/15/2024 5:20 PM
62 Swedish and immigrant heritage 3/15/2024 3:10 PM
63 Wildlife of Scandia! 3/15/2024 11:55 AM
64 Na 3/15/2024 10:53 AM
65 History of local government and it's impact on Scandia. 3/15/2024 9:31 AM
66 I grew up in this area so I love everything about the history! 3/15/2024 9:00 AM
67 Immigrant history 3/15/2024 8:27 AM
68 The natural beauty and wildlife. 3/15/2024 8:17 AM
69 Please do not allow a dollar general store in Scandia, it will be a blight on the town for
decades.
3/15/2024 7:01 AM
70 History of the Scandia Dairy 3/15/2024 6:41 AM
71 How neighors helped to build each other's barns out of local resources. Also, would like to
know more about Isaac Bernheimer, land speculator, who owned/resold many of the properties
in the area, and Carl CP Meyer, the land surveyor for the original platting of the area.
3/13/2024 5:08 PM
72 The progression of people, their work, and the continuing care the community has for the
continued use and protection of the natural environment.
3/13/2024 4:38 PM
73 Indian history in scandia , and farming history, local artisans 3/13/2024 3:24 PM
74 This thing is a tremendous waste of money and is not wanted by the people who live close to
the proposed site
3/11/2024 11:52 PM
75 Inclusion of Native American and Hmong immigration 3/11/2024 5:48 PM
76 Don’t duplicate Gammelgarden 3/11/2024 10:29 AM
77 I would like to see displays about how the Native Americans were forced off their land.
Everyone seems to ignore/downplay this topic
3/11/2024 9:26 AM
78 The Swedish events, vendors, music. 3/10/2024 12:53 PM
79 Scandia has preserved so many buildings and artifacts from the past, so something about the
city's appreciation of its heritage. This whole project emphasizes that dedication
3/10/2024 11:26 AM
80 The original landing on the St Croix River, 3/10/2024 10:40 AM
81 The history of the families who have been staples in the community 3/10/2024 10:08 AM
82 How about the art of tatting. The history of Swedish immigrant stories. Real stories.
Connecting with others.
3/10/2024 9:58 AM
83 History of George Berglund’s store 3/10/2024 9:53 AM
84 Hay lake school my dad went there, and his father did logging in Stillwater 3/10/2024 9:02 AM
85 HISTORY 3/10/2024 8:07 AM
86 Activities for older childern. Pre-teens & teens in Scandia are offered very little. 3/10/2024 7:57 AM
87 No 3/10/2024 4:00 AM
88 Seems like you are planning a nice integration of Swedish culture and Scandia history,
agriculture, logging, and retail activities..
3/8/2024 4:12 PM
89 The History of the area 3/7/2024 10:03 PM
29
91 Who is making money from this? 3/6/2024 3:39 PM
92 No 3/5/2024 7:25 PM
93 All of the above! 3/5/2024 4:37 PM
94 The Scandinavian History including all of the above options in #21 3/5/2024 9:05 AM
95 History of Scandia Elementary school, history of Elim 3/4/2024 10:24 PM
96 There will be added value by having a space that can touch on the stories of the area that are
not covered by Gammelgarden. I would love to see some exhibits illustrating the historic
locations of structures and businesses that were integral to the fabric of the community in
years past. Historic aerial imagery with key areas/features as they changed over time would be
interesting as well. It is also exciting to consider the possibility of a venue in the community
that can accommodate outdoor theatre, music, etc.
3/4/2024 10:17 PM
97 Glacial geology and St Croix R 3/4/2024 9:11 PM
98 Biodiversity and health of the ecology 3/4/2024 8:42 PM
99 Elim has some amazing congregational photos. Fire Photos, etc 3/4/2024 4:28 PM
100 musicians & performances 3/4/2024 1:18 PM
101 Other local historical buildings 3/4/2024 12:45 PM
102 EARLY farming life, Schooling, & transportation 3/4/2024 12:44 PM
103 Early Swedish immigrant families and their descendants 3/4/2024 12:32 PM
104 Access to trails and information aboutoactions 3/4/2024 11:57 AM
105 Our beautiful environment from prairies to lakes to the river 3/4/2024 11:00 AM
106 Heritage information. How to trace our heritage. 3/4/2024 10:42 AM
107 The commitment of the residents of Scandia to Elim Lutheran Church. 3/4/2024 10:36 AM
108 I’m interested in the buildings in scandia. 3/4/2024 10:09 AM
109 Keep country area 3/4/2024 9:54 AM
110 The natural history - historical plant communities prior to colonization. And the relationship of
native people with the land and how they maintained it. This could be made relevant to today
by showing ways people can help to restore some of that functions that have been lost (e.g.
native planting, erosion control etc)
3/4/2024 9:33 AM
111 The importance of Elim church as the centerof the community and largest building in town
which led to serving as "community center" space as well as worship space.
3/4/2024 9:07 AM
112 Cranky old Swedes. 3/4/2024 8:34 AM
113 Celebrating local plants and resources 3/4/2024 8:33 AM
114 Scandia Market and Bank history 3/4/2024 8:22 AM
115 The open land, nature, and wildlife. 3/4/2024 8:15 AM
116 Original settlement info 3/4/2024 12:18 AM
30
31
\Q26 When you think of Scandia, what themes or topics come to mind?
Answered: 153 Skipped: 242
# RESPONSES DATE
1 Farming, logging, nature 3/28/2024 11:57 AM
2 Home, community and history 3/28/2024 11:14 AM
3 The St Croix River connection 3/25/2024 8:05 PM
4 River stewardship, prairie restoration, biodiversity studies and habitat protection 3/25/2024 7:49 PM
5 Do not know scandia history that well. 3/25/2024 9:10 AM
6 Taco Daze and the whole town envolvement. Calendar was great fun. 3/25/2024 7:31 AM
7 Hard working people 3/25/2024 6:19 AM
8 Swedish dala horse 3/24/2024 8:52 PM
9 That the independent, hard working, and thrifty people of Scandia didn't use state tax money to
build their community. That would just encourage sloth and politics, and a loss of the true spirit
that built the community. (More important that bike paths.)
3/24/2024 4:48 PM
10 Swedish Heritage 3/24/2024 2:48 PM
11 Dala horse, tranquility, St Croix River 3/24/2024 12:46 PM
12 Beautiful landscapes! 3/24/2024 12:12 PM
13 Dala horse. FIKA!!! 3/24/2024 10:49 AM
14 More business needed along 97 3/24/2024 8:24 AM
15 Swedish settlement 3/23/2024 3:01 PM
16 Swedish heritage 3/23/2024 10:39 AM
17 Farming, Swedish history, Swedish values and design, quiet, peaceful, lake life, wildlife,
birds/birding, strong families, strong and determined people who work together, fishing
3/23/2024 9:32 AM
18 small town community 3/23/2024 7:27 AM
19 I love the idea of connecting the Original People's, Native history, to Scandinavian cultural
similarities.
3/23/2024 2:13 AM
20 Stuck in the old theme.lets move forward and attract good paying jobs 3/22/2024 10:17 PM
21 there is nothing in scandia that makes it worth the trip 3/22/2024 10:09 PM
22 Sweden 3/22/2024 10:06 PM
23 Family Values. Community centered and healthy activities. 3/22/2024 7:04 PM
24 Scandinavian 3/22/2024 4:55 PM
25 Swedish history, nature, small but strong community 3/22/2024 10:27 AM
26 Immigrants 3/21/2024 8:42 AM
27 rural 3/21/2024 8:08 AM
28 Natural beauty, wonderful people 3/20/2024 5:38 PM
29 Miesters 3/20/2024 4:47 PM
30 I hope we can work towards a more vibrant downtown, more businesses even if just summer
based; food trucks, coffee shop with baked goods, indoor farmers market during winter
3/20/2024 3:58 PM
32
months, keep building on the current community activities, spaghetti nights at the community
center to create some funding for events, possible craft nights, travel clubs, concerts at the
new amphitheater (open music nights), give folks a reason to come together.
31 Small town, Swedish, 3/20/2024 3:40 PM
32 Small town with a lot of family history - meaning - so many generations have called Scandia
home & have never left the area.
3/20/2024 10:14 AM
33 Agriculture, Elim Church 3/20/2024 6:59 AM
34 Dala horses 3/19/2024 10:41 PM
35 parks and trails. Future Gateway connection 3/19/2024 8:18 PM
36 Their culture. 3/19/2024 6:56 PM
37 Swedish History, Agriculture, Small town. 3/19/2024 4:05 PM
38 na 3/19/2024 3:59 PM
39 Scandinavian culture 3/19/2024 3:48 PM
40 Our Swedish heritage 3/19/2024 2:11 PM
41 Outdoors, community, rural 3/19/2024 11:38 AM
42 Big Marine Lake, rural charm 3/19/2024 11:26 AM
43 Swedish Horses 3/19/2024 7:38 AM
44 Peaceful country living with community minded neighbors 3/18/2024 5:19 PM
45 Solid economy 3/18/2024 4:30 PM
46 I thrink of the museum and history of European settlement. 3/18/2024 2:56 PM
47 Gammelgarden and interpeting history 3/18/2024 2:14 PM
48 Swedish Culture 3/18/2024 1:46 PM
49 Deep pockets 3/18/2024 1:39 PM
50 Forests, Creeks, Wildlife 3/18/2024 11:40 AM
51 Swedish heritage 3/18/2024 11:32 AM
52 Swedish heritage 3/18/2024 11:25 AM
53 Farms and the people 3/18/2024 11:10 AM
54 Swedish Heritage 3/18/2024 10:46 AM
55 Swedish heritage, farm/ag 3/18/2024 10:34 AM
56 Sweden, agriculture, history 3/18/2024 10:20 AM
57 Swedish 3/18/2024 10:16 AM
58 Farm lands 3/18/2024 10:03 AM
59 Immigration, I think the combination of this and GG will bring people to both. 3/18/2024 8:39 AM
60 Farming 3/18/2024 8:38 AM
61 Swedish heritage, 3/18/2024 7:18 AM
62 Swedish settlement. 3/17/2024 11:19 PM
63 The farmers in bibs who gather for morning coffer. 3/17/2024 3:03 PM
64 Rolling hills, st croix valley, beautiful downtown - Wish it was a micro-stillwater in someways. 3/17/2024 1:24 PM
65 Outdoorsy 3/17/2024 12:59 PM
66 N/A 3/17/2024 10:38 AM
33
67 Swedish immigrants, community, natural resources 3/17/2024 8:52 AM
68 Bicycling 3/17/2024 6:14 AM
69 Farming 3/16/2024 10:31 PM
70 Dala Horses! 3/16/2024 9:30 PM
71 Sweden 3/16/2024 9:07 PM
72 Swedish, St. Croix River, lacking a downtown but would be super nice if they had a quaint
downtown
3/16/2024 8:39 PM
73 Scandinavian history, rural character, 3/16/2024 3:14 PM
74 loss of agricultural base, loss of viable downtown core 3/16/2024 1:00 PM
75 Immigrants 3/16/2024 12:36 PM
76 Early settlers 3/16/2024 10:41 AM
77 Nature, dairy farms and Scandinavian heritage 3/16/2024 9:47 AM
78 Strong community, rich history, beautiful land 3/16/2024 9:46 AM
79 Swedish history 3/16/2024 8:59 AM
80 Beautiful, bucolic landscape, softball, Meisters, close knit community, Taco Daze, history 3/16/2024 8:31 AM
81 Community 3/16/2024 7:38 AM
82 NA 3/16/2024 7:22 AM
83 Pottery/crafts, farming, Swedish culture, Big Marine Lake history 3/15/2024 8:16 PM
84 Scandinavian influence on MN culture 3/15/2024 7:45 PM
85 Indigenous history, beautiful landscape, Swedish heritage 3/15/2024 6:26 PM
86 Dala horses, community strength/togetherness, the fire department (maybe do a historical
overview of the fire department?), nature, Gammelgarden, and the cemetary.
3/15/2024 11:55 AM
87 Na 3/15/2024 10:53 AM
88 Strong community support; natural features. 3/15/2024 9:31 AM
89 Copus, Franconia, Vosa, what did they do there, what was it like? What happened to them? 3/15/2024 9:00 AM
90 Swedish, rural, river 3/15/2024 8:27 AM
91 Scandinavian 3/15/2024 8:17 AM
92 The St. Croix River, forests and natural beauty. No Dollar General! 3/15/2024 7:01 AM
93 You've covered them all. 3/15/2024 6:41 AM
94 Farming, Swedish heritage 3/14/2024 11:22 PM
95 Swedish/Norwegian immigration 3/14/2024 9:38 AM
96 History, entrepreneurs, care for the resources and environment, community sharing of the
resources and history
3/13/2024 4:38 PM
97 Swedish. 3/13/2024 3:24 PM
98 Peaceful, safe, and beautiful area. 3/13/2024 9:47 AM
99 Swedish 3/12/2024 8:59 PM
100 Backwards community that was more thriving and had more businesses 100 years ago that it
currently has
3/11/2024 11:52 PM
101 Fastpitch softball, Trails End restaurant 3/10/2024 5:53 PM
102 My immigrant Swedish family 3/10/2024 12:53 PM
34
103 history, culture, art 3/10/2024 11:26 AM
104 Swedish heritage 3/10/2024 11:26 AM
105 Immigrants, valuing nature/environment 3/10/2024 11:16 AM
106 Swedish and native 3/10/2024 11:07 AM
107 Beautiful scenery, quietness 3/10/2024 10:45 AM
108 Swedish heritage 3/10/2024 10:40 AM
109 The Swedish horses 3/10/2024 10:08 AM
110 All things Swedish. 3/10/2024 9:58 AM
111 Swedish history. Community pride 3/10/2024 9:53 AM
112 Swedish background my dads parents Otto and Stella Johnson came to Scandia and settled
my dads family owned the land that is now protected and his state park
3/10/2024 9:02 AM
113 Swedish settlement 3/10/2024 8:14 AM
114 Logging and farming 3/10/2024 8:07 AM
115 Swedish heritage 3/10/2024 7:58 AM
116 Communtiy, Sweden 3/10/2024 7:57 AM
117 Old people that are out of touch with the timex 3/10/2024 4:00 AM
118 Swedish heritage, Gammelgarden, proximity to the river, beautiful country landscapes. 3/8/2024 4:12 PM
119 Swedish history 3/8/2024 7:51 AM
120 Hygge 3/7/2024 10:03 PM
121 The history & customs of the Swedish people 3/6/2024 6:42 PM
122 Swedish 3/6/2024 6:22 PM
123 Swedish heritage, small town, close community 3/5/2024 7:25 PM
124 Swedish culture 3/5/2024 5:52 PM
125 Scandinavian, arts, community, a place of gathering, nature 3/5/2024 4:37 PM
126 Scandinavian history 3/5/2024 9:05 AM
127 swedish heritage, town mercantile, outer agriculture 3/5/2024 5:54 AM
128 Scandinavian Heritage 3/5/2024 1:49 AM
129 Scandinavian heritage 3/4/2024 10:24 PM
130 Swedish Heritage, Immigrant Stories, Logging, Indigenous History, Elim, the importance of
music as it was promoted through the church (organ, choir, bell choir, etc.), community-driven,
Dala horse, agricultural identity, connection to the St. Croix River
3/4/2024 10:17 PM
131 Beauty/great people 3/4/2024 8:42 PM
132 Elim and how important the church was to our ancestors. All of Scandia revolved around Elim
and to ignore it is to do your Heritage Society a disservice. The fire that burned the church
down in 1937 (?). The farmers and townspeople that rushed to fight the fire and to rebuild
afterwards.
3/4/2024 4:28 PM
133 History, nature, Swedes 3/4/2024 1:18 PM
134 Gammelgarden, John Dillinger hideout, lakes 3/4/2024 12:45 PM
135 Swedish History 3/4/2024 12:44 PM
136 Natural beauty, Gammelgarden Museum, Elim church, family connections 3/4/2024 12:32 PM
35
137 Beauty, nature, familt 3/4/2024 11:57 AM
138 Small town farming community 3/4/2024 11:06 AM
139 Swedish heritage, outdoor activities 3/4/2024 11:06 AM
140 First people’s, immigrant culture, farming, St Croix River 3/4/2024 11:00 AM
141 Small town living, thanking the Scandia Marine Lions for their community involvement. 3/4/2024 10:42 AM
142 Swedish heritage, farmers, local businesses and Elim Lutheran Church. 3/4/2024 10:36 AM
143 Community! Everyone who lives here is happy and proud of their town. 3/4/2024 10:09 AM
144 Nature 3/4/2024 9:54 AM
145 Nature, St Croix River, Open space, not too "busy" - a sense of calmness. 3/4/2024 9:33 AM
146 Rural setting, role of St.Croix in the history of the area to present time. 3/4/2024 9:07 AM
147 Small town, history, nature 3/4/2024 9:05 AM
148 Dull 3/4/2024 8:34 AM
149 Beauty, agriculture, connection to the river valley 3/4/2024 8:33 AM
150 Making Scandia more visable,like promote the downtown area 3/4/2024 8:22 AM
151 Nature, agriculture, Swedish immigration, rural living 3/4/2024 8:15 AM
152 Swedish immigrants 3/4/2024 8:12 AM
153 Dala Horse, a welcoming place 3/4/2024 12:18 AM
36
37
Q27 Are there topics or themes you prefer not to be presented with when
visiting a heritage center?
Answered: 76 Skipped: 319
# RESPONSES DATE
1 No 3/25/2024 8:05 PM
2 No. 3/25/2024 9:10 AM
3 Tribute to WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, etc. 3/25/2024 7:31 AM
4 Black history 3/25/2024 6:19 AM
5 Current events/farming 3/24/2024 8:52 PM
6 Keep politicians out of it. The film "The Immigrants" was partially filmed in Scandia. 3/24/2024 4:48 PM
7 No 3/24/2024 2:48 PM
8 No 3/24/2024 10:49 AM
9 Logging 3/23/2024 3:01 PM
10 Stories with a political agenda or exaggerated stories about native Americans or immigrants
other than Scandinavians just for the sake of being inclusive. My great-great uncle was the
postmaster who came up with the name of this town! Our family immigrated from Sweden.This
area is Swedish. If people don’t want to learn about that and appreciate it, oh well! It is what it
is. Don’t force ideas from the vantage point of today — nearly 200 years later- and make it
something it wasn’t just to appease pressures from our culture today. Let history be what it
was in its pure form so we can learn from it.
3/23/2024 9:32 AM
11 I don't believe in glorifying outlaws. 3/23/2024 2:13 AM
12 No 3/22/2024 10:17 PM
13 do nothing there 3/22/2024 10:09 PM
14 Political themes 3/22/2024 10:06 PM
15 I dislike the LGBQT agenda. I prefer traditional family values. 3/22/2024 7:04 PM
16 N/A 3/22/2024 10:27 AM
17 Not that heritage isn’t important but I would love us to also celebrate the here and now, the
current folks. How can we acknowledge our teachers, fire fighters, volunteers, celebrate who
we are today!
3/20/2024 3:58 PM
18 How white people stole land for others 3/20/2024 3:40 PM
19 No 3/19/2024 6:56 PM
20 No 3/19/2024 4:05 PM
21 na 3/19/2024 3:59 PM
22 No 3/19/2024 11:38 AM
23 No 3/18/2024 4:30 PM
24 Politics 3/18/2024 1:46 PM
25 Nope - anything would be fun to learn about! 3/18/2024 10:20 AM
26 Pushing an agenda, just simple history without bias would be appreciated 3/18/2024 7:18 AM
27 Logging and Swedish people. 3/17/2024 10:10 PM
38
28 Shops selling junk. Trinkets, etc. 3/17/2024 12:59 PM
29 Those inappropriate for children. 3/17/2024 10:38 AM
30 No 3/17/2024 8:52 AM
31 No 3/16/2024 9:07 PM
32 Things that can’t be understood unless you have a detailed pre-existing understanding of the
area
3/16/2024 8:39 PM
33 Negative 3/16/2024 12:36 PM
34 Marine already has logging sites/history, I don’t think this would need that. I really like the idea
of the use of the barn and amphitheater for community gatherings centered around kids.
3/16/2024 12:36 PM
35 No 3/16/2024 9:47 AM
36 NA 3/16/2024 9:46 AM
37 NA 3/16/2024 7:22 AM
38 Nothing 3/15/2024 7:45 PM
39 Not that I can think of. 3/15/2024 11:55 AM
40 Na 3/15/2024 10:53 AM
41 splash pad 3/15/2024 9:31 AM
42 I could care less about Dillinger or actress 3/15/2024 9:00 AM
43 No 3/15/2024 8:27 AM
44 No 3/15/2024 8:17 AM
45 Any topics relevant to the land, resources, people and events of the Scandia area would be of
interest.
3/13/2024 4:38 PM
46 pretty much everything that is planned. this is monument to the failure of a community that
once was thriving and now is practically a ghost town
3/11/2024 11:52 PM
47 Anything political 3/11/2024 5:48 PM
48 Wars, ethnic conflicts 3/10/2024 11:26 AM
49 Environmental camps 3/10/2024 10:40 AM
50 No 3/10/2024 9:58 AM
51 Politics 3/10/2024 8:07 AM
52 No 3/10/2024 7:58 AM
53 any political 3/10/2024 7:57 AM
54 No 3/10/2024 4:00 AM
55 None. 3/8/2024 4:12 PM
56 No 3/8/2024 7:51 AM
57 Recent Event History 3/7/2024 10:03 PM
58 None 3/6/2024 6:42 PM
59 Drinking themes 3/5/2024 7:25 PM
60 No 3/5/2024 4:37 PM
61 NO 3/5/2024 9:05 AM
62 no 3/5/2024 1:49 AM
63 The immigrant story is covered so thoroughly at Gammelgarden, it will be interesting to have a 3/4/2024 10:17 PM
39
center that focuses on the many other stories that could be explored. I have always been
curious about the other businesses or features within the community that were an integral part
of the Town's fabric.
64 Recent Immigration 3/4/2024 4:28 PM
65 Doesn't make sense to duplicate same exhibits and historical observations as the
gammelgarden.
3/4/2024 12:45 PM
66 N/a 3/4/2024 11:57 AM
67 Glorification of logging industry- important to also understand the impacts it had on the
environment not just job creation and development benefits. Also glorification of Scandinavian
immigrant culture without acknowledgement of who was here before and how settlements
impacted their cultures and way of life. It sounds like you’re being mindful of these things
which is great!
3/4/2024 11:00 AM
68 Anything political, environmental and climate related. 3/4/2024 10:36 AM
69 Please no global warming preaching, especially if anybody has to use a car to get to the
museum.
3/4/2024 10:16 AM
70 No 3/4/2024 10:09 AM
71 Swedish themes 3/4/2024 9:54 AM
72 Politics 3/4/2024 8:34 AM
73 Stop pushing DE&I, be authentic about the history. European immigrants were the minority. 3/4/2024 8:33 AM
74 Politics 3/4/2024 8:22 AM
75 Anything related to alcohol, drugs, and violence. 3/4/2024 8:15 AM
76 Criminals and robberies 3/4/2024 12:18 AM
40
Q28 How often do you attend cultural events, take cultural classes, or visit
cultural sites in the St. Croix Valley, between Taylors Falls and St. Croix
Falls to the north and Stillwater to the south? Examples include visits to
Gammelgarden Museum, Washington County Heritage Center, Franconia
Sculpture Park, Festival Theatre or Frosted Glass productions, St. Croix
Pottery Tour, music events at Rustic Roots Winery or Brookside Bar and
Grill, art classes at Marine Mills Folk School or ArtReach St. Croix, events
at Osceola Art Barn, etc.
Answered: 383 Skipped: 12
I have yet to
visit this p...
1-2 events per
year
3-5 times per
year
6-10 times per
year
More than 10
times per year
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
I have yet to visit this part of the St. Croix Valley 4.70% 18
1-2 events per year 30.29% 116
3-5 times per year 32.90% 126
6-10 times per year 15.67% 60
More than 10 times per year 16.45% 63
TOTAL 383
41
Q29 How often do you estimate that you would visit our center during open
months (May through December), provided that new exhibits or events
were regularly offered?
Answered: 386 Skipped: 9
1-2 times per
year
3-5 times per
year
6-10 times per
year
More than 10
times per year
Never
because...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
1-2 times per year 26.68% 103
3-5 times per year 40.93% 158
6-10 times per year 19.43% 75
More than 10 times per year 10.88% 42
Never because... 2.07% 8
# NEVER BECAUSE...DATE
1 I live out of state and come back infrequently. But would enjoy visiting it when in town 3/24/2024 2:48 PM
2 Other things I enjoy doing more 3/22/2024 10:40 PM
3 Need a place to eat for lunch 3/22/2024 10:17 PM
4 . 3/22/2024 10:10 PM
5 It has nothing there for our family 3/22/2024 10:09 PM
6 It has no interest to most of the people visiting town and especially not to the residents who
live nearby
3/11/2024 11:52 PM
7 Too much money for the content. 3/6/2024 6:07 PM
8 Just not that interested in the history of a water tower barn. 3/6/2024 3:39 PM
TOTAL 386
42
Q30 What times work well for you to visit cultural/heritage centers?
(Choose all convenient times)
Answered: 360 Skipped: 35
Weekday
mornings
Weekday
lunchtime
Weekday
afternoons
Weekday dinner
hour
Weekday
evenings
Weekend
mornings
Weekend
lunchtime
Weekend
afternoons
Weekend dinner
time
Weekend
evenings
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
43
ANSWER CHOICES Q30 RESPONSES
Weekday mornings 30.56% 110
Weekday lunchtime 22.22% 80
Weekday afternoons 45.83% 165
Weekday dinner hour 23.61% 85
Weekday evenings 46.39% 167
Weekend mornings 51.39% 185
Weekend lunchtime 55.56% 200
Weekend afternoons 74.44% 268
Weekend dinner time 38.61% 139
Weekend evenings 52.22% 188
Total Respondents: 360
44
Q31 Which days of the week work well for you to visit cultural/heritage
centers? (Choose all convenient times)
Answered: 350 Skipped: 45
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Monday 39.71% 139
Tuesday 43.71% 153
Wednesday 46.29% 162
Thursday 54.57% 191
Friday 66.86% 234
Saturday 84.29% 295
Sunday 78.00% 273
Total Respondents: 350
45
TOTAL 378
Q32 Would paying fees keep you from participating in an event or exhibit?
Answered: 378 Skipped: 17
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes 27.51% 104
No 72.49% 274
46
Q33 What is the ZIP code where you live -- or for your cabin near Scandia-
Marine?
Answered: 390 Skipped: 5
55073 (Scandia)
55047 (Marine
on St. Croix...
55038 (Hugo
and May...
55082
(Stillwater)
55025 (Forest
Lake)
55013 (Chisago
City)
55045
(Lindstrom)
55012 (Center
City)
55074 (Shafer
and Franconia)
55084 (Taylors
Falls)
54020
(Osceola, WI)
2-29-24
3-23-24
If other,
please fill ...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
47
ANSWER CHOICES Q33 RESPONSES
55073 (Scandia) 45.13% 176
55047 (Marine on St. Croix and May Township) 23.33% 91
55038 (Hugo and May Township) 0.51% 2
55082 (Stillwater) 4.10% 16
55025 (Forest Lake) 5.90% 23
55013 (Chisago City) 0.26% 1
55045 (Lindstrom) 1.03% 4
55012 (Center City) 1.03% 4
55074 (Shafer and Franconia) 1.03% 4
55084 (Taylors Falls) 0.00% 0
54020 (Osceola, WI) 2.05% 8
2-29-24 focus group 1.79% 7
3-23-24 focus group 1.03% 4
If other, please fill in the blank 12.82% 50
TOTAL 390
Other ZIP codes come from Minneapolis, St. Paul, and suburbs in Anoka, Hennepin, Ramsey, and Washington
counties. A few are from Wisconsin and Greater MN.
48
TOTAL 257
Q38 Would you like to be added to our email list to receive updates about
events and news? We promise not to over communicate, and you can opt
out at any time.
Answered: 257 Skipped: 138
Yes
N0
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes 63.42% 163
N0 36.58% 94
49
Q39 Do you have a preferred method of being contacted?
Answered: 252 Skipped: 143
Email
US Mail
Text
Phone
Social Media
I do not wish
to be contacted
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Email 61.11% 154
US Mail 5.16% 13
Text 5.16% 13
Phone 0.40% 1
Social Media 2.38% 6
I do not wish to be contacted 25.79% 65
TOTAL 252
50
TOTAL 271
Q40 Are you interested in donating time to our project as a volunteer?
Answered: 271 Skipped: 124
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes 32.84% 89
No 67.16% 182
51
TOTAL 252
Q41 Are you interested in donating money to our capital campaign?
Answered: 252 Skipped: 143
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes 23.02% 58
No 76.98% 194
52
TOTAL 250
Q42 Are you interested in donating professional services to our capital
campaign?
Answered: 250 Skipped: 145
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Yes 12.80% 32
No 87.20% 218
53
Q43 If yes, what is your professional specialty?
Answered: 35 Skipped: 360
# RESPONSES (Duplicates or NA removed)
1 It depends on if this a project created with donated money and sweat, or taxing the people of
2 the state for a Scandia, MN project.
Photography
3 General Contractor
4 Electrical work
5 meeting facilitation, strategic planning, board governance
6 Music/Sound Production
7 I have a bakery, I could put the new barn on cake or cookies
8 Writer
9 Theatre Space Design or Consulting, Programming Ideas
10 Physician with focus on osteopathic manual medicine, fourth trimester care, and breastfeeding
11 medicine
12 musician, carpenter
13 Real Estate
Exhibition design, Museum collection care, Art curation
14 Construction
15 Financial management
16 Museum planner
17 I'd love to help lead art/environmental classes!
18 Windows, I've restored a couple houses so I have some experience k
19 Concrete contractor
20 Legal
21 Training
22 Printing
23 Live Music Event Production Services
24 Landscape Designer
25 Performance
26 pottery
27 Sign Language Interpreter
28 Horticulture
29 I can donate gift certificates if you do an auction.
30 Food Service
31 marketing communications
54
Q44 What is your age?
Answered: 371 Skipped: 24
18-24
25-35
36-45
46-55
56-65
66-75
76-85
86-95
96+
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
18-24 1.35% 5
25-35 8.89% 33
36-45 19.14% 71
46-55 15.90% 59
56-65 24.26% 90
66-75 21.02% 78
76-85 8.63% 32
86-95 0.54% 2
96+ 0.27% 1
TOTAL 371
55
Q45 What is your gender?
Answered: 370 Skipped: 25
Male
Female
I identify
differently...
I prefer not
to say
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Male 29.19% 108
Female 68.38% 253
I identify differently than male or female 0.27% 1
I prefer not to say 2.16% 8
TOTAL 370
56
Q46 What is your education level?
Answered: 365 Skipped: 30
Not a high
school graduate
GED
High school
Some college
Associate
degree
Bachelor ’s
degree
Master ’s degree
Doctorate
degree
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Not a high school graduate 0.27% 1
GED 0.55% 2
High school 2.74% 10
Some college 16.16% 59
Associate degree 9.04% 33
Bachelor’s degree 39.18% 143
Master’s degree 25.21% 92
Doctorate degree 6.85% 25
TOTAL 365
57
Q47 OPTIONAL QUESTION: What is your race? Pick all that apply.
Answered: 332 Skipped: 63
American
Indian or...
Asian
Black or
African...
Hispanic or
Latino
Native
Hawaiian or...
White
If not listed,
please list...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
American Indian or Alaska Native 3.01% 10
Asian 0.60% 2
Black or African American 0.30% 1
Hispanic or Latino 2.11% 7
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 0.30% 1
White 95.78% 318
If not listed, please list below: 1.81% 6
# IF NOT LISTED, PLEASE LIST BELOW: DATE
1 Jewish 3/22/2024 10:17 PM
2 Norwegian viking 3/18/2024 1:39 PM
3 Scandinavian 3/18/2024 11:40 AM
4 German, Norwegian, Dutch and Greek 3/15/2024 9:00 AM
5 Human 3/6/2024 5:17 PM
6 Human 3/4/2024 8:34 AM
Total Respondents: 332
58
Q48 Please feel free to share anything about this project you think we
should know:
Answered: 67 Skipped: 328
# RESPONSES DATE
1 Incorporate holiday festivities into your schedule, Christmas, Easter, etc. if not already doing
so.
3/25/2024 7:31 AM
2 Non-taxpayer fund riser. Self-reliance, pride of community. Swedish.
www.bricksrus.com/fundraising/over-25-years/
3/24/2024 5:42 PM
3 Why in the world are you asking about gender, race, age, etc ....... and didn't even bother to ask if
I was Swedish, German, or a darned Norwegian?? Consider going back to step "2" in this
potentially worthy project.
3/24/2024 4:48 PM
4 I appreciate your project. I will try and support you from a distance 3/24/2024 2:48 PM
5 I would be interested in help assist in rebuilding the water tower barn. Also, I think highlighting
the various community groups, including in the city, it would be good to have some visibility.
3/24/2024 12:12 PM
6 answer to question 32: It Depends on the price 3/23/2024 12:19 PM
7 Yes please a splash pad!! 3/23/2024 11:58 AM
8 It looks like an interesting and compelling project and I hope you succeed. 3/23/2024 8:05 AM
9 While I may not participte in a lot of events, I like the idea of a heritage center 3/23/2024 7:27 AM
10 The tax payers should NOT pay for any of this! 3/22/2024 10:40 PM
11 Waste of tax dollars 3/22/2024 10:10 PM
12 In the survey, Tech school should be listed as an education option. 3/21/2024 10:07 AM
13 I would ask that the Scandia Town Council loosen up their signage rules to direct folks
traveling on 97, 95 and Olinda to our town businesses. What can we do to have more vibrancy
in town, how can we become more of a destination. I know the Heritage Center will be helpful
in this effort. I cannot tell where it will be located. I couldn’t get the sound on the video to work
on my phone. I’m very excited to hear of this project.
3/20/2024 3:58 PM
14 keep up the good work! 3/20/2024 11:27 AM
15 this is a board member which is why I didn't complete the info about being a volunteer, as I
already am!
3/19/2024 3:22 PM
16 Prepare for large number of visitors 3/18/2024 5:19 PM
17 We are truly blessed to live where most vacation. 3/18/2024 4:30 PM
18 Costumed enactors on summer weekends for suitable exhibits, like some of our state parks 3/18/2024 1:46 PM
19 Thank you for preserving Scandia's rich history! 3/18/2024 11:25 AM
20 History is most important in a troubled world to be a better person in the future for a better
world. You don’t have space for parking for a large gathering and people without space creates
tension. Tension dosen’t allow the mind to absorb the history of the past to give you a better
path for tomorrow.
3/18/2024 11:17 AM
21 This is a great opportunity to establish a cultural center for the area, not only creating a
community of artists/musicians/performers, but also in creating more business opportunity as
people discover the goodness of Scandia!
3/18/2024 10:34 AM
22 Continue to regularly keep public informed about all aspects of funding especially any taxpayer
funded eg lobbying costs, as well as grant money and fundraising results.
3/18/2024 9:06 AM
59
23 I would like to see where exactly the new "trail" is going to run, and why are they talking about
a tunnel under the road here? That is a huge waste of money.
3/17/2024 3:03 PM
24 I’m concerned this will be a financial burden on our community 3/17/2024 12:59 PM
25 N/A 3/17/2024 10:38 AM
26 I would love to see pitcher plants native to Minnesota while walking through a wetland trail. 3/17/2024 9:53 AM
27 Very excited about all of the possibilities! 3/16/2024 9:30 PM
28 It would be wonderful to see music, theater, and dance presentations from a wide range of
genres both local and national. I would be interested in being involved in
curating/booking/organizing.
3/16/2024 6:18 PM
29 Hello, I’m new to the area and am just learning about your project. As someone who’s created
a nonprofit art space and worked in a collection-based museum I have a few thoughts off the
top of my head. First, I’d suggest taking a realistic view on exhibition turn over when it comes
to long term versus short term exhibitions. That includes whether your target audience will be
mostly locals or tourists- this piece will impact programming, the exhibition schedule, and
design of the exhibition spaces. One other factor to maybe keep in mind is the phenomenon
that folks in the community often overestimate their own attendance & participation. Also, and
this isn’t glamorous, but I’d put a major emphasis on collection storage and care, as there’ll
need to be proper archival storage for a broad spectrum of materials which can easily
deteriorate, some which could have contaminants, not to mention the varying sizes, oh, and
regulated temperature and humidity conditions. I’d recommend having a proper collection
protocol to handle gifts and potential acquisitions will also be important as well. Finally, I’m not
sure of your long term funding structure, but art nonprofits are renowned for being underfunded
and being too reliant upon unpaid staffing, so creating a mission statement with values that
include proper funding for paid professional staffing to oversee your multifaceted event space
will aid in ensuring its longevity. I have more thoughts, but I’ll leave it at that for now. I’m
excited to see what becomes of your project and wish you the best of luck. -Eric
3/16/2024 11:53 AM
30 I may be interested in volunteering, depending on what the time commitment would be and
what type of volunteering is needed.
3/16/2024 9:46 AM
31 NA 3/16/2024 7:22 AM
32 The survey is well done! The first two questions are spot on! I can’t wait to see this come to
life! I can possibly volunteer some time.
3/15/2024 8:16 PM
33 I think the splash pad is a bad idea because it doesn't fit with the themes, introduce
unnecessary liability, and will be a headache and money drain for maintenance.
3/15/2024 9:31 AM
34 Focus on wildlife in the area, too! A nature center would be nice. 3/15/2024 8:17 AM
35 No Dollar General in Scandia, please!!! 3/15/2024 7:01 AM
36 I am the president of the Friends of the Karl Oskar House and wondering about collaboration
possibilities.
3/15/2024 6:41 AM
37 I am interested in assisting with this project but I am a 24/7 caretaker for a 98 yr old, in
addition to running 2 businesses. Please forgive me for not volunteering as my time is already
overstretched.
3/13/2024 5:08 PM
38 As a teacher, I would LOVE to bring my students to field trips that teach local history,
especially immigration issues, Native American history, Hmong history, logging, and
construction of the barn.
3/11/2024 5:48 PM
39 Would like to see this open year round 3/11/2024 10:29 AM
40 Great idea to have a survey. Hopefully it reaches many different types of people for real
representation. I hope this place is welcoming and inclusive and accessible to all types of
people young and old. I would like to move to Scandia if life allows so I'm interested in outdoor
activities. Anything with hiking, biking or mountain biking to get to the heritage center would be
MAJOR in getting there. I love the splash pad idea. I would also add a little natural play area
like Tamarack nature center in attracting families.
3/11/2024 5:31 AM
41 I would love to see a splash pad for kids and an outdoor movie! 3/10/2024 11:52 AM
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42 My great grandfather lived in Marine & was in the Civil War. 3/10/2024 11:32 AM
43 My age, disability, and distance from Scandia preclude me getting involved in volunteering. I
love the area and would eagerly visit. I would also consider a donation if my budget permits -
you didn't give a "maybe" option.
3/10/2024 11:26 AM
44 I think you need to have a coffee shop that serves pasties and sandwiches 3/10/2024 10:40 AM
45 Great Project Water Tower Barn Trails and Outdoor Coffee Shop Sound Great 3/10/2024 10:28 AM
46 My mom (Shirley Ahlm) was the treasurer for Hilltop Water Company which was the name of
the well that was in this building and served the downtown area.
3/10/2024 9:53 AM
47 Can’t wait to come visit bring my mom and dad and my children to show them where I grew
up!! We’re their Grandpa grew up!
3/10/2024 9:02 AM
48 Ancestors were early settlers by Bone Lake. 3/10/2024 8:07 AM
49 Great survey! Thoughtfully covers such a wide range of topics/dimensions. Generated real
excitement in the project for me. I would be interested in volunteering a little time in the future
(can only manage a small donation of money) -- but if I am informed of volunteer opportunities
/ tasks I will respond if I can. Thank you, and all the best!
3/8/2024 4:12 PM
50 Survey is too long 3/7/2024 12:11 PM
51 I feel that too much public money is being spent and will continue to be spent for limited
benefit.
3/6/2024 6:07 PM
52 I’d love to help with the audio, visual, acoustic, design and installation and perhaps operation if
needed. I have 40+ years of experience in the music industry much of that time as a live
sound engineer. I’m semi retired now and I live just down the road. Cheers!
3/6/2024 5:17 PM
53 would be nice to connect the Barn with the Scandia Farmers Market - maybe do joint activities
to bring people to the area
3/5/2024 10:10 PM
54 I’m excited for the Water Tower Barn Scandia Arts and Heritage Center to become reality! 3/5/2024 7:25 PM
55 Thank you for all of the work you’re putting into this project. This is such an exciting time for
Scandia and the surrounding community with the future addition of this space and the events
that will be held here. We are a young family in the area, so our financial resources are limited,
but we’d be happy to assist with our time when we are able. Thanks again!
3/5/2024 4:37 PM
56 I will likely contribute volunteer time in the future upon my retirement. Thank you for keeping
Scandia history alive for today and the future of the children.
3/5/2024 9:05 AM
57 So excited to know about this! I have many and much history in Scandia! My Great
Grandfather is one of those fellas, whose picture was taken by the Monument. Charles
Almquist.
3/5/2024 1:49 AM
58 Thank you for everything you are doing to bring this project to Scandia. 3/4/2024 10:17 PM
59 Elim Lutheran Church is celebrating it's 170th Birthday this year. Founded in 1854 I think it's
the oldest entity in Scandia still doin what it started out doin. Thats pretty cool.
3/4/2024 4:28 PM
60 World's largest dala horse would bring in more people to the water tower barn 3/4/2024 4:09 PM
61 a good restaurant would be a popular addition 3/4/2024 12:44 PM
62 I think it's important that the project not become a future tax burden for Scandia & Washington
County residents.
3/4/2024 12:32 PM
63 I can't commit to any volunteering but it could be possible if time allows for it. Also, if there are
any volunteer opportunities for teenagers as well or even children.
3/4/2024 11:23 AM
64 If I can help in any way, please let me know. Thank you for taking on this wonderful piece of
local history.
3/4/2024 10:42 AM
65 Stay focused on Scandia heritage and don’t stray away too far on unrelated things. 3/4/2024 10:36 AM
66 I’d love to help in any capacity. This project is my dream come true! 3/4/2024 10:09 AM
67 Thanks for all your work on this! I think it will be a great asset for Scandia. If I can help consult 3/4/2024 9:33 AM
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on the ecology/nature-related themes let me know.
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Appendix C – Press Release
For Immediate Release
March 1, 2024
Contact: Susan Rodsjo, Chair, Scandia Heritage Alliance
Ph: 651-233-0267 Email:
ScandiaHeritageAlliance@gmail.com
How would you celebrate
Scandia’s rich history?
Scandia Heritage Alliance, a nonprofit group of residents, is leading an effort to create an arts
and heritage center. They are asking for opinions on different aspects of the center, from exhibit
ideas to amenities. Participate by completing an online survey at http://bit.ly/42WXBuY. A
printed copy can be requested at the survey site.
According to Susan Rodsjo, chair of the SHA board of directors, the center will include space to
celebrate Scandia’s rich history, an outdoor amphitheater, a water garden play area for kids,
and a wetland overlook and trails.
“We have an opportunity to highlight Scandia as a uniquely interesting and vibrant place to live
in and visit,” Rodsjo said. “When people fill out the survey, they’ll help us thoughtfully preserve
and celebrate our rich history, culture, arts, and rural character.”
The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete. People can choose to share their names or
remain anonymous.
Answers will help the board prioritize exhibit ideas, such as how the Water Tower Barn impacted
life, immigrant stories over the decades, social clubs and gatherings, the progression of
agriculture, the failed bank robbery in 1914, and many more. The survey will also influence
programming development, such as theater, music, art classes, dance lessons, and more.
“Now is the ideal time to add your voice to the discussion,” Rodsjo said.
The survey is open through March 22.
The project received $2.2 million from the Minnesota Legislature last year. Fundraising is ongoing.
Learn more about the Scandia Heritage Alliance and the Water Tower Barn Scandia project at
www.scandiaheritage.org.
Cutline: Scan the QR code or type in http://bit.ly/42WXBuY to complete the Scandia Heritage
Alliance survey by March 22.
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Appendix D – Article in Country Messenger
64
Appendix E – Pioneer Press Article
65
Appendix F – Flyer
66
Appendix G – Facebook Posts
Scandia Heritage Alliance Facebook Page Scandia Then and Now Facebook Page
(463 followers) (4.9K members)
Marine on St. Croix Facebook Page Scandia Then and Now – final post
4.9K members 4.9K members
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Appendix H – Focus Group Invite
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Appendix I – Focus Group Detailed Notes
Heritage Families Group 1
February 29, 2024 - Scandia Community Center
Five long-time residents of the area whose
ancestors were early immigrants to Scandia
gathered to provide insights on how the new
heritage center might capture the unique
aspects of life in Scandia. A mix of ages was
represented, with two women and three men:
Anna Gonzalez, Karen Johnson, Greg Benson,
Donover Ahlm, and Jim Lindberg.
Lynne Moratzka, Director Emeritus of
Gammelgården Museum in Scandia, provided
context for the Swedish immigration story.
Susan Rodsjo, Chair of the Scandia Heritage
Alliance Board of Directors, provided an
overview of the project and set the stage for
discussion.
Focus group members filled out part of the
written survey, rating their level of interest in
18 different display topics.
A gallery walk exercise encouraged them to
write notes or questions on the 18 topics they
had just rated. The consultant reviewed
comments and encouraged people to expand on their thoughts.
The consultant noted a strong positive reaction to the topic of early women entrepreneurs. Female
participants noted the telling of history often favors men. There’s more to know about the hard-working
women who managed local stores, farms and homes while the men sometimes went logging, hunting,
off to war, etc. Scandia had several stores run by husband/wife pairs, and a millinery (hat store) in the
Village Center was owned and run by a woman. Clothing was important because it described social class.
As participants left the meeting, they used stickers to “vote” for up to five of their favorite topics.
Logging received four stickers. A conversation about the topic noted that farmer men often worked at
logging camps during the winter. Jim’s grandfather broke up log jams in the river; he left his wife along
with nine kids. People want to know how logging impacted Scandia.
The topic of social clubs brought up many memories of the importance of softball games and
tournaments in Scandia. The game took root in the 1930s. It has been four years since a softball team
has called Scandia home. There was a time in recent history when Scandia’s reputation was undisputed
for having outstanding ball players. The three men in this focus group are Minnesota Softball Hall of
Fame Inductees. In the heyday of the sport, people knew it was time to gather at Scandia’s lit ballfield to
watch a game because a car with a loudspeaker drove around the community, inviting them. A display
of uniforms and other memorabilia wouldn’t be difficult to accumulate with help from the men in the
focus group. Jim Lindberg expressed regret that he recently disposed of the team’s trophies, not
knowing where to continue storing them.
Jim Lindberg shares softball memories with Susan Rodsjo, Board Chair
of Scandia Heritage Alliance.
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It wasn’t just fast-pitch softball that participants discussed. Also mentioned were the Scandia-Marine
Lions Club and the Rod and Gun Club after WWII. Five stickers were placed on social clubs and
gatherings as a favorite display topic.
Topics they didn’t see in the survey included schools and Elim Church, a unifying presence. Participant
Jim is in a 1929 photo of the large congregation. The church, which is 170 years old, persisted through
two fires and a tornado – rebuilding multiple times. Plat maps would help track family lines.
Oral histories could capture stories of kids’ shenanigans with apple fights downtown. Could people
articulate what made them feel safe and part of a community that wasn’t rich but had wonderful
people?
Sustainability is important. Questions were asked about paying for the center beyond the capital
campaign. Ideas were bantered about to make sure maintenance is prioritized. Some feel it’s easier to
raise funds for programming than maintenance. Gammelgården Museum has an endowment fund that
provides 5% for maintenance. There’s no begging for operating expenses. Ideas for the new center
include raising funds by welcoming family donations and recognizing their stories along a heritage trail.
Hometown pride is evident in these focus-group participants: Donover, Anna, Karen, Greg, and Jim.
Gallery Walk Results – Heritage Group 1
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Heritage Families Group 2
March 23, 2024, Scandia Community Center
Participants: Bill Havener, Debbie (Larson) Havener, Christina Morrison, Lynne Moratzka, Janelle
Lindberg-Kendrick, Bonnie Olson, Suzanne Lindgren, Stephanie Sandgren Pereboom, and Barbara
Sackmann. SHA Board Chair Susan Rodsjo provided an overview of the project and set the stage for
discussion, and Bjorn Skogquist of Jill Brown PR facilitated.
Conversation flowed easily in this group, with participants sharing fond memories from growing up in
Scandia, as well as tidbits of history not covered in the survey. Following are topics discussed and
highlights of the conversation.
Scandinavian heritage and history
• Lindgren and Morrison shared stories of their Scandinavian heritage and ancestral homes.
Christina is 5th generation. She lives in the house built by her ancestors in the 1870s, and it
includes some original design elements, such as the basement door hardware.
• Janelle is third generation. Her grandmother was a phone operator, working in the brick 2-story
phone company building on Olinda Trail.
• Bonnie’s grandmother came from Sweden. John’s side of family…grandfather bought land in
1850 and built a house in two phases over time. 1917 added porch. Original desk from the post
office is handmade and in her possession. It’s in two pieces, hand-carved walnut. Doesn’t think
original log structure is still there in the house.
• Barbara shared that her family history traces back to the 1850s and 1860s.
• Stephanie lived in her grandparents’ house for a few years. After getting married, they built a
new house. Great-great grandfathers settled in the area.
How were homes built?
• Sometimes homes were ordered from catalogs – such as Sears Robuck kit homes - with material
shipped via railroad to the depot in nearby Copas.
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• A red brick manufacturer was located on 230th Street in Scandia. One participant believes the
bricks in Elim Church may have been from there – and could have been the source for several
historic brick homes in Scandia. In 1890s, the brick maker went out of business.
• A.D. Morrison labels are on the boards in the basement at Christina’s house.
• Palmer style house was a catalog option.
• Where were raw materials sourced for building? Members find topic fascinating.
• Limestone is a local product from the St. Croix River valley. A quarry was located on the St. Croix
River in Scandia below Quarry Avenue.
Local history and family stories
• Random relatives of Frank Morrison stop by the original farm. They sometimes have better
records of history. Gather in the summer. Christina will give Frank assignments to share more.
• Jim Lindberg was president of Security State Bank of Marine and has lots of history. Could talk to
him about bank robbery.
• Myron Lindgren is another good contact to learn about Scandia history.
• Ask Myron about playing hockey. Was it casual? Was it organized? Zephyrs was the name of the
team. Chisago County has information. Not just a pick-up team. A league. Like the baseball
team. Cool stories to find.
• Mercantile – the Scandia Cooperative Store -- was the favorite place to be as a kid. Co-op had
annual event with prizes. It sold shares. One participant won a pillow when she was 10.
• Mercantile auction when store was closing. Streets were flooded at night for that auction. Made
impression on young girl because she had never been to town at night.
• Multi-party phone lines with operators. Bonnie said that as a teenager, she remembers saying
“please get off the line.” You’d hear a click, but then another click when someone rejoined.
Rings were different for each residence. If you were a Nosy Rosey, you’d pick up other people’s
calls to listen in.
• Uncle was a ham radio operator.
• Frank Morrison family diary. Christina will scan materials. In English.
• Native communities are mentioned in Frank Morrison’s notes. Swedish kids wore wooden shoes
handed down. Start with many layers of socks. Leather moccasin making learned from Native
Americans. Thrilled to have another kind of footwear.
• 1886 letter -- Grandfather received letter from mother in Sweden. She has translation.
• Knapp’s Cave on the St Croix River – Minnesota side -- both immigrants and Indians used the
cave and seemed to get along.
• 1918 pandemic. Marker on end of driveway to indicate if house had illness. Spanish flu.
• Polio impacts. Medicine stuff is fascinating.
• Include stories about Dakota and Ojibwe that lived in this area. What happened after the
treaties? How did it reshape the area? Not a lot mentioned of Native groups. Seemed like things
were pretty peaceful with settlers in the area.
• Excerpts of history of tribes printed in area newspapers. Chippewa band. Bjorn was asked to
scan and provide copies to Scandia Heritage Alliance, which he sent to Susan Rodsjo.
Cabins and resorts
• Cabins, resort areas began appearing in Scandia -- when did that start happening? Bill said half-
dozen cabins in 1950s and then grew.
• Bliss edition on Big Marine Lake located off of Manning started developing after the 50s. Bill has
photos from that time.
• Shady Birch was a resort on Big Marine Lake in the ‘20s or ‘30s (Washington County acquired it
by eminent domain in early 2000s for Big Marine Park Reserve)
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• River cabins…some are hard to find today. No cell phone service, no electricity.
• Bill says when he was a kid probably 6 places rented boats. Now there’s none. No place to buy
bait on the lake. No place to spend money on the water.
• Nice to see Washington Co. has acquired some property. Down by the old beach is now county
land. There will be more public access. They closed Shady Birch Resort to build public landing.
• If you wanted to swim on Big Marine, you had to pay 25 cents to walk across property to a
swimming area -- memory from childhood.
Social Clubs
• Sew and Sew Club was community based, not church. Lasted a long time.
• Rod and Gun Club was big; the building is still there – the garage across from Meister’s Bar. Local
kids learned to shoot there.
• Scandia-Marine Lions are huge to this day.
There was discussion of recent and upcoming milestones.
• The Gateway Trail is coming to Scandia and will go to Meister's parking lot
• Trail parking and trail access in the area were discussed.
Voting on Amenities
Participants were given stickers to vote on amenities they’d like to see at the arts and heritage center.
Top choices were walking paths/peaceful settings, water garden play area, and live music in the barn.
Gallery Walk Results – Heritage Group 2
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Recent Immigrant Focus Group
March 25, 2024, via Zoom
Bad weather (snowstorm) moved the recent immigrants focus group to Zoom. The four participants in
attendance were Gratias from Togo, Africa (lives in St. Paul); Jutta from Germany (lives in Scandia);
Christine from Kenja (lives in Minneapolis), and Bee from Laos (lives in Forest Lake, a neighbor
community to Scandia). Susan Rodsjo, SHA Board Chair, shared comments from her husband, Paul
Rodsjo, an immigrant from Norway who could not attend due to a last-minute work conflict. Susan and
Lynne Moratzka, Director Emeritus of Gammelgården Museum in Scandia, provided background
information on the project and the Swedish immigration experience. Consultant Jill Brown facilitated the
conversation.
Christine has a 3-year-old son. She’s a marketing major at Metro State. She came from Kenya when she
was five and grew up in both cultures. She shared that what she experiences inside her parents’ home
still differs from what she experiences outside of the house. Swahili was spoken at home.
Gratias was about five when her family moved from Togo, Africa, to Minnesota. Her experience was
similar to Christine’s. The primary language in the home became English. She ate cultural food. She
understood the different worlds inside and outside the home. It was difficult to balance at first, but it
became easier. Today, she works with Paint Care, an organization that helps people responsibly manage
waste paint.
Bee works in sales at a car dealership. His boss’s family helped a nonprofit organization that serves
orphans. Bee’s family arrived in 1996. He is a second-generation American who was born in Laos. He
was 8 years old when the family came here. As a child he experienced translating for his parents with
medical care and more. Parents are still traditional with emphasis on religion, Shamanism. Ancestors
play a vital role in their religious practice. Newer generations are more Americanized. His parents told
stories to the children about farming in the mountains. During the focus group, he showed a craft
tapestry that tells a story line on cloth. Bee knows a person who still makes them.
Jutta was born in Germany and moved here in 2000. She and her husband were drawn to it because of
the heritage. Her husband had lived in Stuttgart, Germany, for 28 years before relocating to Scandia.
Bee shares an image of a story cloth. It's one way to share Hmong culture at the new center.
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Susan shared some of her husband’s experiences to see if there were parallels with other participants.
Paul Rodsjo first came from Norway as a foreign exchange student at age 15 and returned to the United
States for college. He married Susan at age 22, and today he is a pilot and part owner of a charter
aviation company. Susan explained that Paul tells people he loves the United States for the amazing
entrepreneurial opportunities that he would not have had living in Norway. He believes that overall,
immigrants are a hard-working group -- driven by a dream of providing a better life for their children and
grandchildren. Focus group participants agreed there’s a strong entrepreneurial thread. The American
Dream is still alive.
Gratias shared that winning the visa lottery became their way of accessing more opportunities. Things
were tough at first.
Christine’s mother also won a visa lottery. The whole village was involved in the family's decision to
move. They knew one person in America, and they lived in the Twin Cities. Christine’s family moved in
with them. She remembers the drive to get an apartment and improve their situation. Her dad worked
any kind of jobs. “I have to run because my parents walked. Or even fly because my parents ran.” She
has a drive because she saw her parents overcome. She remembers being pushed in the stroller, taking
the bus, and waiting in a different room while her mother attended classes.
Bee’s family came when their refugee camp closed. There were rumors of slaves in the US. His mother
wanted education for the kids. School wasn’t offered in refugee camps or in Thailand. His uncle was in
the US first helping with a nonprofit serving orphans. The uncle sponsored the family. Without
sponsorship, a family could be sent anywhere.
Jutta agreed with Paul’s experience that a better life for the kids was a big reason to move to the area.
Her daughter was interested in horses, but there wasn’t space or a lot of money for that in Germany.
They have family members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The oldest son stayed in Germany and started
his own family. Jutta enjoys German meet-up groups in the area and events at the German American
Institute.
A common theme was that all had help to assimilate into the American culture.
Families celebrate their culture through holidays, clothes, food, and wedding traditions. Jutta orders
German hot dogs from Chicago and serves them with German potato salad for Christmas—a 50-year
tradition.
Bee said chicken is a staple of cultural foods. During New Year celebrations in November, Bee’s family
gets fresh chicken from a St. Paul store off of Hwy 52. River Center in St. Paul hosts a Hmong New Year
event where you’ll see traditional Hmong clothes. The different style tells the story of where families
come from (which Susan noted is similar to the traditional clothing of Sweden and Norway). Weddings
are still traditional. Hmong clothes are common at the weddings. Some people do both a traditional and
an American wedding. Traditional weddings include a dowery paid by the groom.
Clothing is universal as a way to communicate status and resources.
Christine says there are 50 different tribes in Kenya, each with its language in addition to Swahili.
Jewelry helps tell the tribes apart. Food is uniting. Something similar to mashed potatoes is a staple used
to hold other foods. She is a self-proclaimed foodie and believes food is a great way to make
connections between people.
Gratias’s family celebrated Christian holidays. She said Thanksgiving seemed weird at first, a foreign
concept. Traditional foods include a cornmeal-based carrier for stews and other things.
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When asked if there were things to grab for teachable moments at the new center:
• Gratias said Africa has many intricate and different cultures, not one big one. She encourages
people to ask questions. The new center might help people learn how to be curious respectfully.
• Lynne offered food as a way to connect and to preserve the home culture. Rice is treated
differently in different cultures, for example.
• Bee suggested using art as a way to tell the stories of different cultures – and he shared a
traditional tapestry from his Hmong culture. The group discussed the idea of sharing traditional
tapestries from various cultures at the arts and heritage center.
• Christine said Africa is too often portrayed as poor, dirty, suffering, starving children. She’d like
to see more of what life really is there. See what is beautiful in the culture.
The outdoor amphitheater proposed for the center would offer an opportunity to highlight the
storytellers' talent and the culture's values. Susan said she would welcome knowing about cultural
theater productions and children’s books. She also asked for suggestions on music. The group was
willing to assist.
A two-question survey in Zoom provided a tool to collect opinions and share the results instantly. The
first question asked them to select up to five features of WATER TOWER BARN SCANDIA that they would
be most likely to visit to attend. The top vote-getter was a tie between Scandia history displays in the
barn and walking paths/peaceful seating near wetlands and rain gardens. A three-way tie for second
place was the water garden play area, art shows and regional artists, and bike/walk trails around the
wetlands with stories of Ojibwe and Dakota history and culture.
The second Zoom survey question asked them to select up to five historic displays on Scandia history
that they would be interested in visiting. Tied for first were the three immigrant men who established
the first Swedish settlement, the history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota, and the parallels between
Ojibwe and Swedish culture. Water Tower Barn craftsmanship came in next, along with the progression
of agriculture.
It's important for the center to be accessible to people at all income levels.
Native American Focus Group
April 1, 2024, Scandia Community Center
This focus group was led by interpretive planner Regine Kennedy of Blue Willow Planning, a consultant
who has experience collaborating with Native Communities to develop interpretation for Indigenous
heritage trails and other projects.
Three local residents participated: Diane Wilson is an author who lives in Franconia Township just north
of Scandia. Rosetta (Rosie) Peters -- part owner of Brookside Bar and Grill -- lives and works in
neighboring Marine on St. Croix; she is also a poet. Jan Lynn is owner of Crabtree’s Garden Gate, a long-
standing garden and gift store in Scandia. She and her husband raised their children in Scandia before
moving to a nearby community. Diane and Rosie shared that they are Dakota, and Jan is Omaha,
originally from South Dakota.
At the time of the focus group, SHA and the City of Scandia had recently applied for a Heritage
Partnership Grant from the Minnesota Historical Society to study the history and culture of Ojibwe and
Dakota tribes in the Scandia-Marine area and to develop a preliminary interpretive plan for an
Indigenous Heritage Trail around the wetland that lies between the future arts and heritage center and
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Scandia City Hall. SHA Board Chair Susan Rodsjo provided an overview of the concept for research and
the Indigenous Heritage Trail, and also provided an overview of the future arts and heritage center. In
addition, Rodsjo shared with the group the extremely strong community support for sharing Native
American history and culture at the center per results of the audience analysis survey, which had
completed the day before.
The three focus group participants were enthusiastic about including Dakota and Ojibwe history and
culture at the arts and heritage center. High-level takeaways from this group are:
• Participants strongly support sharing Native American history and culture along the wetland trail
and expressed pride that our community is pursuing this project.
• Along the wetland trail and/or near the rain gardens, they would like to include interpretation about
native plants, area geology, the value of wetlands, and the natural environment of Scandia before
logging (e.g., was Scandia prairie, oak savannah, white pine forest, other?)
• They support including a display on Native American history and culture inside the Water Tower
Barn Museum to build community and share the area’s full history.
• If SHA and the City of Scandia win the Heritage Partnership Grant to study Indigenous history and
culture in Scandia-Marine, they would prefer that two different researchers are hired: One to study
Dakota history and culture, and one to study Ojibwe history and culture. They talked about ways to
share both cultures along the wetland trail – perhaps through separate interpretive displays for each
culture.
• The participants said they were aware that the Scandia-Marine area was home to Dakota tribes, but
they questioned the history that Ojibwe were living in the area. Susan Rodsjo told them about the
significance of Scandia as the location where the two tribes crossed paths. A boundary was created
between the two tribes in the 1825 Prairie du Chien Treaty, a line that ran through northern Scandia
on the St. Croix River at a “Place called Standing Cedar” (known today as Cedar Bend).
• Susan offered to send scans of historical accounts from the St. Croix Valley. In a follow-up email to
the group, Susan provided additional information that she found indicating that Ojibwe were the
prominent tribe in the Chisago Lakes area just north of Scandia. Other accounts mention Dakota
settlements on Fish Lake in Scandia and Big Marine Lake, which is located in Scandia and
neighboring May Township.
• Focus group participant Diane Wilson, a successful author who lives in Franconia Township,
expressed possible interest in being the researcher. Susan Rodsjo indicated that she would check
with the MNHS to find out if it’s acceptable to hire a professional writer who does not have research
credentials. (NOTE: a response was provided by John Fulton, Grants Specialist with the Minnesota
Historical Society, who wrote, “We don’t vet qualifications of consultants, but we do hope
researchers are qualified. If the need for the position is mainly familiarity with Dakota culture or
history, perhaps Diane is qualified in that sense. If she has done any amount of non-fiction research
previously, that certainly helps as well. Her locality is also a bonus. Hope that helps.”
• All three participants indicated that they are interested in leading projects around Native American
history and interpretation as part of an Indigenous Partner Group and agreed to meet again in April
or May 2024 to identify and contact possible researchers for the project.
79
Gallery Walk
80
HERITAGE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM
Scandia Heritage Alliance
R-HP-2401-28823 | $111,184 | Heritage Partnership
Develop an Interpretive Plan for an Indigenous Heritage Trail to Share the History, Culture and
Stories of Ojibwe and Dakota Tribes in Scandia-Marine
APPLICANT INFORMATION
Project Director: Susan Rodsjo
Authorized Officer: Kyle Morrell
Additional Project Staff: Christine Maefsky
Note that only the three people listed above will be able to view and edit this request in the portal. If a
name of a person does not appear in the list, contact the grants office at grants@mnhs.org with the
contact information for the person to be added including full name, title, telephone, and email address.
Applicant County: Washington
Applicant Organization Type:
Governance/Board Members: Greg Amundson, John Herman, Christine Maefsky, Peter Nora,
Tamara Peterson, Sarah Porubcansky, Susan Rodsjo, Pamela Smith, Dan Willius
Partners List:
City of Scandia
Attn: Kyle Morell
14727 209th Street North
Scandia, MN 55073
Phone: 651.433.2274 Fax: 651-433-5112
Cell: 651.245.2654
Email: k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us
Web: www.cityofscandia.com
* Brief Program Summary (REQUIRED TO SAVE):
Hire consultants to research Indigenous history in Scandia-Marine and create an interpretive
plan for an Indigenous Heritage Trail on the wetland connecting City Hall to the arts and
heritage center.
Geographic Focus of Project: Washington
Could any items related to this application be considered "culturally sensitive objects"? These objects
could be items used in a spiritual ceremony or other ritual, or funerary objects or human remains. They
can be of any cultural origin.
Select Yes or No (If unsure select Yes.): No
* Amount Requested (REQUIRED TO SAVE): $111,184.00
Match Offered (Use total from above): $0.00
How were above figures determined? Estimates from conversations with possible project
research, interpretive planning, and landscape architecture consultants. Travel expense estimates
based on probable location of consultant for mileage and standard GSA travel per diem rates for
2024.
Partnership Program Description:
PARTNERS
Partners are Scandia Heritage Alliance (SHA) and the City of Scandia, represented by the
City Administrator and a member of the Parks and Recreation Committee and the City
Council.
SHA is actively setting up an Indigenous Partner Advisory Group of Dakota and Ojibwe
THPOs and local residents. The Indigenous Partners are people with whom SHA and
consultant advisors have established relationships.
SHA and the City are ideal partners because of their successful collaboration. SHA has an
agreement with the City to develop WATER TOWER BARN arts and heritage center on
parkland near City Hall, and we were awarded $2.2 million for the project by the State
Legislature in 2023. SHA developed a city-approved master plan and architectural designs
and is managing fundraising. The city is donating the land via a 100-year lease at $1/year.
An SHA goal is to research and share the history of Indigenous people - most recently
Ojibwe and Dakota - who lived in the Scandia-Marine on St. Croix area because this history
has not been fully recognized by the city to date. The City also aims to “maintain and
promote the City’s cultural character and history" -- the No. 1 goal in its 2040 Comprehensive
Plan.
ROLES
SHA is the lead partner. A chairperson will lead a volunteer committee to coordinate efforts
among the project team, including residents with Native American heritage and Indigenous
Partners. SHA will identify and hire experienced and qualified consultants and obtain bids;
schedule meetings; present at city meetings to obtain feedback; lead consultant
coordination; create a Critical Review Committee and coordinate reviews; obtain critical
review letters; and prepare grant applications to fund fabrication.
The PRC and City Council representatives will attend planning meetings and provide input;
gather City feedback; and coordinate efforts with SHA.
The City Administrator will attend planning meetings and provide input; provide guidance on
city approval; and prepare reports to the City Council.
This partnership enables us to share a more complete version of Scandia history. The city
owns the land but, as a small city, has limited hours to devote to projects. SHA has a broad
base of dedicated volunteers to complete the hard work. Through the partnership, we share
resources to achieve a project that would otherwise be impossible.
PROGRAM
The SHA Heritage Trail map states, “The first inhabitants of the area now known as Scandia
were Native Americans. For centuries, they lived and traveled along the St. Croix River,
establishing villages and developing trade... Seasonally, they migrated between spring
maple sugar camps, summer villages, fall wild rice gathering and hunting grounds, and
winter camps.”
Similar to development of the Waabizheshikana Trail along the St. Louis River in Duluth, a
wetland trail in Scandia could share the cultural and historical significance of natural
resources for Indigenous people, and “integrate artwork, historical accounts, and highlights
from the natural world to create new ways of seeing the landscape from diverse and
unexpected perspectives” (credit Urban Ecosystems Landscape Architects).
The purpose of the project is to develop a Conceptual Interpretive Plan for a wetland trail that
shares the history and cultural perspectives of the Indigenous people who inhabited the area.
The project has two parts: Research and Interpretive Plan. SHA will hire a consultant with
Native American research credentials to produce a report on the history, culture, and stories
of the Indigenous People - most recently Ojibwe and Dakota - who inhabited this land. The
research design will be created and refined in collaboration with the research consultant.
SHA will hire an interpretive planner and a landscape architect with experience designing
trails to refine the route and identify locations for interpretive displays. The team will identify
natural resources along the trail with cultural significance for Indigenous people, such as
maple trees for maple syruping, birch trees for crafting birch bark containers, and native
plants used as food and medicine. Regine Kennedy, an NAI-certified interpretive planner
with extensive experience and connections with Dakota and Ojibwe people and tribal
communities, has assisted in developing a work plan that ensures the Interpretive Plan is
guided by Indigenous people, principles, and values.
Research and ongoing conversations with Indigenous Partners will inform the Interpretive
Plan. The interpretive planner will facilitate work sessions with the project partners to
establish a framework for interpretation that identifies culturally informed principles and
values related to interpretive messages, primary and secondary audiences (from the current
audience analysis project), design style inspirations, an interpretive theme and topics or
storylines for interpretation, and meaningful and appropriate interpretive methods and media.
The team will develop concepts that detail the interpretive experience by location along the
trail. The concepts will clarify the purpose, content points, and potential graphics for each
interpretive element (e.g., a sign). The concepts will also provide location details and
structural information as applicable, and include a thumbnail sketch and installation
information. Finally, the Interpretive Plan will identify the next steps for design development
(i.e., interpretive text and graphic layouts), production and installation, and will provide
ballparks costs.
Specific interpretive messaging will be based on the research, but could include:
• Seasonal migrations/rounds in the Scandia-Marine area
• Traditional Native American uses for plants and animals in the St. Croix Valley
• Ojibwe and Dakota names for animal and plant relatives
• The shared appreciation that Indigenous people, historic Swedish immigrants, and current
residents have for the land and its resources
ACCESS TO HISTORY
This program will enable SHA and the city to research, share, and preserve a more complete
history about Scandia’s original, Indigenous inhabitants. The interpretive trail would be
accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities, with connections to William O’Brien State
Park, the Gateway Trail, and Scandia Village Center. With its proximity to the arts and
heritage center, it is also accessible to people attending other programs and events.
Please select the need and rationale that best fits your project from one of the following list:
Need and Rationale (select one): This project addresses strong demand from the public.
Program Justification:
SHA had a Steering Committee consisting of 10 residents to help guide creation of WATER
TOWER BARN SCANDIA arts and heritage center. A member of the Committee guided SHA
to include the history of Indigenous Peoples as a component of the center. The Board of
Directors agreed this is an essential goal, and it was incorporated into our plans.
Preliminary results of an Audience Analysis Survey currently underway for WATER TOWER
BARN SCANDIA (includes responses from 71 people) shows that interpretation about "The
history and culture of Ojibwe and Dakota people who inhabited this area before European
settlement" is a top priority. This choice is the #1 topic from among 18 choices for historic
displays, with 59 percent of respondents selecting it as a Top 5 choice.
We completed a market research study in 2022 that included interviews with more than 30
people in Scandia and Marine on St. Croix. The report concludes that sharing the history of
Indigenous Peoples in our area is an important component of the project. Several
interviewees indicated that nowhere in our communities is this history being shared.
RESEARCH PLAN:
Much is known about the history of conflict in the St. Croix Valley between Ojibwe and
Dakota Tribes, but little information is available about where they lived, their culture, historic
stories, or where they later settled. This report is intended to focus on culture and history that
is specific to Scandia-Marine -- not conflict.
A number of burial mounds are located in Scandia, and known habitation sites include inside
William O'Brien State Park, along Fish Lake, and south of Marine on St. Croix.
Archaeological digs at the Sheffield site located in current Marine on St. Croix -- the latest led
by Dr. Ed Fleming in 2014 from the Science Museum of MN -- revealed a 14th-century
Oneota site.
An archeological report by Lloyd Wilford in 1956 describes evidence of camp sites in Leslie
Cave in Scandia, known now as Knapp's Cave. Artifacts included shards of pottery from the
Archaic Period and arrowheads from the Woodland period.
The research will answer: Which Native American groups lived in the Scandia-Marine area in
which periods? What were their customs and ways of life? What were their seasonal
patterns? Without revealing specifics, where in Scandia-Marine did they historically live?
Where did the Ojibwe and Dakota from this area eventually settle? How and when was
Knapp's Cave on the St. Croix used? What is the cultural significance of the burial mounds in
our area, and with which tribes are they associated? Are there known oral histories from our
area? What plants and animals were significant - particularly those near wetlands, lakes, and
the St. Croix River?
The research report will include a narrative that describes 1) What was discovered and how
the questions posed in the Research Plan were answered, 2) An annotated bibliography of
all of the sources consulted, including those that were not instructive in answering the
research questions, and 3) A short explanation of possible uses of the report.
The research plan will be refined with input from the researcher and the Indigenous Partner
Advisory Group. See the attached preliminary list of possible research sources.
Work Plan and Timetable:
Month 1-2: Identify and hire lead researcher with Native American expertise. Project kickoff,
including site visits with project team. SHA will provide the researcher with a tour of known
Native American historic sites in Scandia-Marine; will schedule meetings with MN Science
Museum archaeologist Ed Fleming and the St. Croix Watershed Research Station to learn
about the Sheffield Site, an approximately 700-year-old Oneota farming village located in
modern-day Marine on St. Croix; and coordinate meetings with other knowledgeable
individuals in the St. Croix Valley. Identify and hire interpretive planner and landscape
architect. (See research resources at end of this section.)
Month 3: Researcher to conduct research, line up meetings with experts, and establish travel
plans.
Month 4-5: Researcher spends time in the Scandia-Marine. Twin Cities, and other locations
to meet with experts, such as Ojibwe Tribal organizations in Wisconsin, the Mille Lacs Indian
Museum, and the Prairie Island Indian Community (Mdewakanton Dakota). Interpretive
planner and landscape architect begin engagement with the Indigenous Partner Advisory
Group to establish culturally informed design principles and values for interpretive messaging
and displays.
Month 6-7: Researcher writes draft report. SHA forms Critical Review Committee and
identifies experts to write critical review letters. Interpretive planner coordinates with
researcher and landscape architect to identify topics for the interpretive displays and
prepares Interpretive Framework.
Month 8: Researchers edit reports and provide final drafts for review. SHA and Critical
Review Committee review final draft and provide feedback. SHA reviews Interpretive
Framework and provides feedback.
Month 9: Interpretive planner and landscape architect continue engagement with the
Indigenous Partner Advisory Group to establish interpretive concepts.
Month 10: Interpretive planner submits Interpretive Concepts for review. SHA reviews
Concepts and provides feedback.
Month 11: Interpretive planner and landscape architect continue engagement with the
Indigenous Partner Advisory Group and prepare the draft Interpretive Plan. SHA reviews
draft Interpretive Plan and provides feedback.
Month 12: Critical Review letters completed. Final edits made to the report. Final report
submitted to MNHS. Interpretive planner and landscape architect finalize the Interpretive
Plan and submit for MNHS review.
Please see the next section - Project Personnel - for planning undertaken for this program so
far.
Project Personnel:
1. We will issue an RFP for the research and writing portion of the project. The research will
be led by one primary researcher. If the primary researcher feels it is necessary to
subcontract with a second researcher who has greater expertise in one of the two tribes that
are the focus, the primary researcher will manage the search, contracting with, and
management of the second researcher.
Required qualifications for the primary researcher include experience in community-based
historic research, experience creating a thorough historic context that can serve as a
foundation for future projects, and expertise in Native American History. To ensure credibility,
the historian must have credentials in Native American History, and ideally Native American
ancestry. Credentials could include degrees and/or fellowships in Native American culture
and history, as well as being a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer.
We have reached out to several possible researchers and have also consulted with Anton
Treuer, Prof. of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University and author of many books. We have
talked to Prof. Treuer about possibly conducting this research, and he has indicated that he
has interest if he is available when the project initiates. If so, he is our top choice based on
his demonstrated research and writing skills, credentials, focus on educating the greater
public, and his deep knowledge of Ojibwe culture (one of the tribes that lived in our area).
2. Based on suggestions found in the Native American Center for Excellence document
called "Steps for Conducting Research and Evaluation in Native Communities," we will
create am Indigenous Partner Advisory Group that includes Dakota and Ojibwe THPOs and
local residents to guide the project. This group will meet three to six times to inform the
research and interpretation plan.
We have reached out THPOs from Ojibwe and Dakota communities in Minnesota and
Wisconsin to identify interest and willingness to guide this project. We are holding an initial
meeting in March that will include four local Dakota and Ojibwe residents, and we are
working to identify one THPO from an Ojibwe community and one from a Dakota community
to participate in this initial meeting. We are making progress, and we are aiming to have
have the Indigenous Partner Advisory Group created before MNHS announces the grant
awards.
3. We will form a Critical Review Committee to review the research and provide feedback.
We will include representatives of both Ojibwe and Dakota Tribes in Minnesota and
Wisconsin, local residents with Native American ancestry, and historians/archaeologists from
our area.
4.We will identify two experts to write critical review letters. We will seek experts with the
same qualifications as the primary researcher described above.
5. We will issue an RFP to hire an NAI-certified Interpretive Planner with experience working
with Dakota and Ojibwe people and Tribal communities. We have been working with Regine
Kennedy from Blue Willow Interpretive Planning to refine the overall project plan. She has
completed a number of projects in collaboration with Indigenous Communities and has been
helpful in connecting us with possible Indigenous Partners. Regine has submitted a proposal
for interpretive planning and project management for this project, which was used for
budgeting purposes.
6. We will issue an RFP to hire a landscape architectural firm to inform the location and
design of the wetland trail and interpretive displays. We have preliminary proposals from
Urban Ecosystems, the company that helped develop interpretation and landscaping for
Waabizheshikana Trail in Duluth (see
https://www.urbanecosystemsinc.com/waabizheshikana) and from TLÂL-LI Collaborative,
LLC.
Estimate the number of project hours worked by newly hired staff to be paid for with grant funds
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Estimate the number of project hours worked by existing part-time staff to be paid for with grant funds.
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Estimate the number of vendors/consultants/ contractors who will work on the project (non staff).
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Enduring Value:
This project will document the history, culture and stories of Indigenous Peoples of the
Scandia-Marine area in the St. Croix River Valley in order to educate residents on this
important but little-known history.
We anticipate that the final report will add new depth to scholarship on the area’s history by
providing new insights on places and events already recorded in local histories and by
identifying aspects of the area’s Indigenous history that were previously unknown outside of
Native communities. In the long term, the context will deepen our understanding of and
respect for the legacy of Indigenous Peoples who inhabited this land long before the arrival
of Euro-American settlers.
The research will inform development of interpretation along the wetland trail that connects
Scandia City Hall to the arts and heritage center. It will also be used to develop 1) a Scandia
History Series event on the history/culture/stories of Indigenous Peoples in Scandia/Marine;
2) An outdoor museum display at Cedar Bend on the St. Croix River in Scandia (accessible
by canoe/kayak/pontoon) informing the public of the significance of Cedar Bend in Dakota
and Ojibwe history (to be included in the Scandia Heritage Trail map); and 3) A museum
display for the future Water Tower Barn - Scandia Arts & Heritage Center.
More immediately, the final report will be available to the public on the Scandia Heritage
Alliance website. We will also provide copies to the tribes that were consulted for the project,
the Minnesota Science Museum, and the Minnesota Historical Society so that the report is
accessible to future researchers.
Sustainability:
Scandia Heritage Alliance and the City of Scandia, working with the Washington County
Historical Society and the Marine Community Library, will preserve the results of the
research gathered. We will work to turn this research into educational museum displays. The
information will also provide a foundational resource for future researchers.
Scandia Heritage Alliance and the City of Scandia are dedicated to the preservation and
protection of historic and cultural assets, landscapes and natural resources in Scandia. Its
efforts through volunteer time, collaboration with the Washington County Historical Society,
Marine Community Library will ensure the sustainability of this project.
PUBLIC INFORMATION
After the Minnesota Historical Society has either approved or denied a grant program application, the
application record, which includes attachments, is accessible to the public upon request except for trade
secret data as defined and classified in Minnesota Statute Section 13.37.
gra
2024 Metrics for Communities
Communities are required to provide the following prior to evaluation:
• Community Profile organized to follow the criteria and metrics. For repeat communities, call out what is new
and/or implemented due to advisors’ recommendations.
• Evaluation Tour Itinerary with start and finish times for each day
• Community Map with community boundaries and the tour route
• Communities are responsible for addressing the metrics in the Community Profile, Evaluation Tour Itinerary, and
during the Evaluation Tour.
The areas to be scored:
Advisors will review Community Profiles, Community Maps, and Evaluation Tour Itineraries to confirm the
appropriateness of the areas to be evaluated and contact communities prior to the tour so adjustments can be
made.
• All areas (municipal, commercial, and residential) within the boundaries of the entrant's
community/municipality (except as noted below) are scored and a representative portion of all areas must be
included.
• Property to be scored, whether public or private, must be subject to the codes and regulations of the entrant’s
community/municipality.
• When a property does not meet these requirements, but the community’s volunteers significantly impact the
property with labor and/or funding, then advisors may include in their scoring the property not subject to the
codes and regulations of the entrant community.
• A community may request recommendations for areas toured but not scored.
Metrics are noted with unique codes based on the criteria. Ratings include:
N/A (Not Applicable): Communities should strive to implement all metrics; however, advisors will use N/A when a
metric is not scorable in a community. N/A metric is not included in the point totals and does not affect
percentages. Examples when N/A may apply in a metric: commercial/business areas do not exist; state or county
statutes prevent implementation of a metric.
Not Started (0 points): programs or procedures are not in place.
In Progress (1-2 points): programs or procedures are developed, and a plan of action is implemented.
In Place (3-5 points): programs or procedures are utilized and beneficial.
Surpassing (6-8 points): programs or procedures are exceptional, utilized, and beneficial throughout the
community.
Other:
• The Evaluation Report’s scoring, general observations, and general and criteria recommendations are
based upon the community’s efforts including its levels of participation in, or implementation of the
metrics in each of the criteria.
• Future projects and programs are not scored.
• The scoring for the seven evaluation criteria is adjusted to the climate and environmental conditions of
the community’s location. Make sure the advisors are made aware of any challenges that were faced
during the year.
2
COMMUNITY VITALITY: Policies, programs, activities, and facilities that
lead to a vibrant community and promote a sense of health and well-
being. Includes, but not limited to, senior and community centers,
libraries, museums, arts/cultural organizations, mentoring programs,
schools, faith-based organizations, parks, playgrounds, dog parks, sports
fields, water activities, trails, golf courses, and other active and passive
recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities.
No
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p
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c
a
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(N
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A
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No
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(
N
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)
0
In
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r
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1-2
In
P
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a
c
e
3-5
Su
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a
s
s
e
s
6-8
1. An economic development plan is in place and implemented. It includes
the direction for short- and long-term economic growth, and programs to
improve the economy. It is regularly evaluated, measured, and/or
reevaluated.
2. Communication of ordinances and policies pertaining to Community
Vitality are easily accessible. Topics include, but are not limited to, culture,
education, government, recreation, and technology. Examples of
communication avenues include, but are not limited to, lectures, print,
city website, city hall, library, and social media.
3. Master plan exists for current and/or future public green space.
Growth, enhancements, and/or protection of undeveloped areas is
included. It is reviewed and routinely updated.
4. Public parks and/or green spaces are available. Properties may include
pocket, school, neighborhood, city, county, state, and national parks and
green spaces. Parks and green spaces meet the needs of the community
and are clean, maintained, welcoming, and utilized.
5. Active and/or passive recreation opportunities are available and meet
the needs of the community. Examples include, but are not limited to,
water sports, golf, baseball, pickleball, skiing, soccer, hiking, nature trails,
bird watching, picnic areas, and fishing. Year-round programs are
available.
6. Seating is available near walking, exercise, playground areas, and/or
public transportation stops. The seating and area are clean and accessible.
7. Shade is provided for participants and/or spectators at cultural and
sporting events. Structures include, but are not limited to, shade sails,
dugouts, pergolas, arbors, and trees. Structures are maintained and
inspected for safety.
8. Community gathering space is available. The space is accessible and
used throughout the year for all ages and abilities. Examples include, but
are not limited to, community center, senior center, YMCA, churches,
libraries, and town hall.
3
9. Age- and ability-appropriate play areas are accessible. Equipment is
ADA-compliant and/or inspected by a Certified Playground Safety
Inspector.
10. Active outdoor community events are offered throughout the year.
Examples include, but are not limited to, Bike-to-Work Day, Walk to
School Day, and 5K events.
11. Community celebrations and/or cultural performances meet the needs
of the community. Examples include, but are not limited to, festivals, art,
dance, theatre, music, and cinema.
12. Secure food programs are available. Examples include, but are not
limited to, hunger relief efforts, food pantries, garden plots, rooftop
gardens, community gardens, farmers markets, and Community
Supported Agriculture.
13. Alternative transportation programs are available. Transportation is
available in all areas of the community. Examples include, but are not
limited to, bicycle/scooter rental, car/van pools, public transportation,
and/or ride sharing to all areas of the city.
14. Safety policies, programs, and/or services are in place. Examples
include, but are not limited to, police, fire, emergency medical services,
community health, crime prevention, homeland security, gang prevention,
traffic, homelessness, civil and human rights. Information is easily
accessible and communicated.
15. Youth-focused programs are in place for multiple ages and/or abilities.
Examples include, but are not limited to, sports, gardening, clubs, and
lectures
16. Non-municipal volunteer boards are active and/or comprised of
representatives from business and residents. Examples include, but are
not limited to, In Bloom committee, Rotary, Veterans, Chamber of
Commerce, Scouting, HOAs, and faith-based organizations.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
1. Community Vitality 128 0 0.00%
4
FLORAL IMPACT: Strategic design, use, installation, and maintenance of
floral displays and seasonal accents for beautification, including but not
limited to annuals, perennials, bulbs, tropical plants, flowering
topiaries, colorful foliage, and cultivated and native plants for season-
round interest for displays in containers, hanging baskets, window
boxes, raised planters, trellises, and in-ground plantings.
No
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No
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(N
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0
In
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1-2
In
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3-5
Su
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6-8
1. Plant combinations are carefully selected for location and
environmental conditions. The combinations create visual interest,
provide dramatic effects, and appear coordinated. Routine maintenance
is evident.
2. In-ground flower displays are designed with mature plant heights,
color, and texture in mind. Plants are healthy, robust, and floriferous.
Routine maintenance is evident.
3. Containers and/or hanging baskets are in use, scaled to their
surroundings, and have suitable plants. Plantings are robust, floriferous,
and provide a dramatic effect. Routine maintenance is evident.
4. Floral displays are located throughout the community. Displays are
well maintained and attractive. Examples include, but are not limited to,
flowerbeds, raised beds, planters, hanging baskets, window boxes,
carpet bedding, topiaries, and/or mosaics are located throughout the
community.
5. Regular pruning, dead-heading, weeding, removal, and/or
replacement of dead plants is conducted on public properties.
6. Demonstration/display gardens are available. Plants are labeled. The
garden is promoted to the public. Garden is available for events to
residents and businesses.
7. Efficient water-wise strategies are in use. Examples include, but are
not limited to, drought-resistant plants, use of gray water, and timing of
irrigation. Strategies are easily accessible and communicated. Examples
of communication avenues include, but are not limited to, lectures,
print, city website, city hall, library, and social media.
8. Appropriate fertilization (chemical and/or non-chemical) procedures
for municipal, parks, and/or school properties are implemented. The
procedures produce effective results. Educational information about
fertilization is communicated. Examples of communication avenues
include, but are not limited to, lectures, print, city website, city hall,
library, and social media.
5
9. Training programs for proper floral displays care and maintenance are
offered to seasonal staff and/or volunteers. Training is conducted by
Master Gardeners, County Extension, local garden centers, state
agencies, and/or contractors.
10. Efforts are in place to educate and raise public awareness of the
importance of flowers in the landscape. Educational information about
selection and care of flowers for beautification is available and
communicated to the public. Examples of communication avenues
include, but are not limited to, lectures, print, city website, city hall,
library, and social media.
11. Recognition programs are in place monthly, quarterly, and/or
annually for attractive displays created by businesses and/or residents.
12. Programs are in place to encourage, recruit, and/or engage
volunteers of all ages and segments in the community’s floral displays.
Routine opportunities present themselves for residents and/or
businesses to get involved.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
2. Floral Impact 96 0 0.00%
6
LANDSCAPED AREAS: Strategic design, use, installation, and
maintenance of the managed landscape. This includes hardscape
features, cultivated and native trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, vines,
succulents, edibles, evergreen topiaries, turf, groundcovers, and
pollinator-friendly plant material.
No
t
A
p
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
(N
/
A
)
No
t
S
t
a
r
t
e
d
(
N
/
S
)
0
In
P
r
o
g
r
e
s
s
1-2
In
P
l
a
c
e
3-5
Su
r
p
a
s
s
e
s
6-8
1. Action plan developed and implemented for proper maintenance,
pruning, removal, and/or replacement of dead and overgrown plants. Best
practices are utilized.
2. Plan developed each season for procurement, scheduling, planting,
and/or maintenance of flowers and/or landscapes.
3. Landscape ordinances and/or policies are in place. City landscape
ordinance requires specifications for landscaping and maintenance for
new and improved residential, commercial, and public development.
Ordinances and/or policies are easily accessible.
4. Landscaping is found throughout the community including public areas,
parks, gateways, and/or key buildings. Landscape displays are selected for
location, environmental conditions, and/or impact. Attractive designs are
utilized and well maintained. Landscapes serve as focal areas in the
community.
5. Landscape displays enhance community entryways. The use of trees,
shrubs, annuals, perennials, signage, hardscapes, and/or lighting create a
welcome display. The displays are attractive and/or well maintained.
6. Residential landscape provides streetscape appeal and reflects
community value in landscaping. They are neat, attractive, and well
maintained.
7. Effective use of naturalization, xeriscaping, rain gardens, and/or suitable
plant varieties to enhance such features as traffic calming, bank
stabilization, and water management. Displays are well maintained.
8. Lawn and turf areas display health and vigor. Procedures and practices,
such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and/or permaculture, are used
to manage lawn and turf areas, including mowing, edging, watering,
and/or weeding.
9. Procedures in place to monitor and/or manage diseases and/or pests in
the landscape. Pertinent information is available and/or communicated to
the public. Examples of communication avenues include, but are not
limited to, lectures, print, city website, city hall, library, and social media.
7
10. Qualified landscape personnel and/or experienced contractors are
available to design, install, source, and/or maintain public landscape floral
and landscape sites. Additional support provided by growers, garden
centers, County Extension, and/or city departments are utilized to create
and implement municipal floral and landscape displays.
11. Training programs for proper landscape display care and maintenance
are available for seasonal staff and/or volunteers. Examples include, but
are not limited to, Master Gardeners, County Extension, local garden
centers, state agencies, and contractors.
12. Programs are in place to encourage, recruit, and/or engage volunteers
of all ages and segments of the community in the landscape displays.
Volunteers from businesses, residents, schools, and/or organizations
participate in the design, planting, and/or care of floral and landscape
displays.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
3. Landscaped Areas 96 0 0.00%
8
URBAN FORESTRY: Strategic design, use, installation, and maintenance
of trees on public and private lands.
No
t
A
p
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
(N
/
A
)
No
t
S
t
a
r
t
e
d
(
N
/
S
)
0
In
P
r
o
g
r
e
s
s
1-2
In
P
l
a
c
e
3-5
Su
r
p
a
s
s
e
s
6-8
1. The municipal plan addresses the role urban forest initiatives play in the
green infrastructure of the community. Policy is enacted and enforced
that includes performance requirements to meet the minimum crown
canopy and/or succession planting.
2. Efforts are in place to educate and raise the public awareness of the
importance of urban forestry. Examples include, but are not limited to, the
use of print, videos, websites, apps, and social media.
3. Municipal ordinance enacted and enforced for tree planting and/or
preservation. Ordinance addresses the handling and removal of damaged,
dying, or dead trees. Ordinance includes public property, private property,
and new construction projects. Communication of ordinances and policies
are easily accessible.
4. Tree board and/or department is available, active, and/or interact with
the community. Examples include, but are not limited to, tree planting
events, addressing safety concerns, education, and making
recommendations to municipality.
5. Certified municipal personnel, trained arborist, urban forester, and/or
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) entity actively manages the urban
forest. Businesses and residents are updated routinely on urban forestry
matters. Information delivered via city website, paper, and social media.
6. Trees are healthy and contribute to public health and wellness.
Procedures are in place for the appropriate selection, diversity of tree
species, proper spacing, planting depth, and/or monitoring and managing
diseases and pests. Pertinent information is available and/or
communicated to the public.
7. Policies are implemented for the protection of historic trees located on
public and private properties. Tree programs exist that spotlight and
honor historic trees. Trees are labeled and/or indexed. Historic trees are
highlighted in a brochure and/or tree walk.
8. Programs in place to increase, support, promote, and/or protect trees.
Examples include, but are not limited to, civic native tree nursery,
repurposing fallen trees, managing destructive pests, and urban orchards.
9
9. Trees are identified in public sites such as arboretums, parks, and/or
cemeteries. Examples include, but are not limited to, identification labels,
descriptive signage, QR codes, kiosks, maps, apps, and brochures.
10. Policies are implemented and education is available for the safe
participation by volunteers and staff in planting trees on public properties.
Ongoing urban forest tree care training and educational information
and/or seminars available for residents and/or businesses.
11. Effective communication of recommended trees is available to the
public. Topics include "Right Tree in the Right Place," mulching,
placement, spacing, and/or maintenance. Examples of communication
include, but are not limited to, lectures, print, city website, library, City
Hall, and social media.
12. The municipality is a member of urban forestry organizations,
participates in programs, and/or earns designations and awards. Examples
include but are not limited to Tree City USA, Arbor Day Foundation, The
Nature Conservancy, and regional or state agencies.
13. Programs are in place to encourage, recruit, and/or engage volunteers
of all ages and segments of the community’s urban forestry. Volunteers
from businesses, residents, schools, and/or organizations participate in
the design, planting, and/or care of the urban forest.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
4. Urban Forestry 104 0 0.00%
10
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES: Environmental and sustainable
leadership, policies, plans, and programs for water, resource
conservation; pollution control; trash, recycling, and reuse; climate
change issues, green Infrastructure, and alternative energy resources.
No
t
A
p
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
(N
/
A
)
No
t
S
t
a
r
t
e
d
(N
/
S
)
0
In
P
r
o
g
r
e
s
s
1-
2
In
P
l
a
c
e
3
-
5
Su
r
p
a
s
s
e
s
6-
8
1. Comprehensive plan to identify, protect, restore, and/or maintain
natural areas. Examples include, but are not limited to, removal of
invasives, no-mow areas planted with native grasses and wildflowers,
and succession tree plantings.
2. A municipal environmental plan is accessible and reviewed annually.
The plan promotes water conservation, alternative energy use, food
security and sustainability, carbon reduction, and/or responsible land
management.
3. Environmental board and/or Green Team are available, active, and/or
interact with the community. Examples include, but are not limited to,
sustainability initiatives, events, education, and making
recommendations to the municipality.
4. Public awareness strategies regarding environmental issues are
implemented and effective, such as the 3 Rs (reduce/recycle/reuse),
Earth Day events, pollution prevention, "leave no trace," landfill
reduction, and community clean-up days. Municipal employees and/or
volunteers receive training on environmental initiatives and participate
in events.
5. Communication of environmental plan and ordinances is easily
accessible. Topics include sustainability, water quality, recycling,
composting, reducing pesticide use, and light pollution. Examples of
communication avenues include, but are not limited to, lectures, print,
city website, city hall, library, and social media.
6. Programs to educate, encourage, and/or expand the understanding of
the role and importance of pollinators and ecological habitats are
available for all ages. Programs are held routinely.
7. Green infrastructure policies and/or techniques are used throughout
the community. Examples include, but are not limited to, naturalization,
xeriscaping, rain gardens, suitable plant varieties to enhance such
features as traffic calming, bank stabilization, stormwater run-off, and
water management.
11
8. Green infrastructure and natural asset inventory mapping are
implemented. The inventory is regularly updated and includes climate,
vegetation, soils, topography, wetlands, air, and/or water quality.
9. Home and business energy audits are available and promoted.
Incentives are available and communicated for items such as solar
energy, water conservation, home appliance replacement,
weatherization.
10. Water conservation measures are used throughout the community.
Examples include, but are not limited to, water-saving shower heads, full
loads for dishwashers and washing machines, sink and toilet leaks, and
lawn irrigation. Methods of water conservation are shared with the
community through lectures, print, city website, library, City Hall, and/or
social media.
11. Management strategies implemented for the effective
reuse/repurpose of buildings, structures, and/or land. The municipality
has a reuse plan in place.
12. Collection is available for trash, recyclables, compostables, and food
waste. Events and/or sites are offered for drop-off of hazardous,
household, electronics, shredding and/or difficult-to-recycle items. Sites
are available for year-round recycling.
13. Recycling and trash containers are available in public areas.
Containers to address both recyclables and trash present themselves
together. Labeling is consistent. Routine trash and recycle pickup are
scheduled. Additional containers are available during special events.
Events promote zero waste.
14. Reuse opportunities are offered. Clothing, books, household goods,
resale shops, tool lending, durable medical equipment, and/or
equipment repair initiatives are available for donations and/or purchase.
15. The municipality uses energy-efficient vehicles in its fleet for police,
fire, public transit, and/or city employees. Options may include electric,
fuel cell electric, plug in electric hybrid, compressed natural gas, and/or
hybrid electric vehicles.
16. Electric vehicle charging stations are located throughout the
community. Charging stations are available to city, residential, and/or
visitor vehicles. 240-volt home charging outlet installation incentive is
available and promoted.
17. Mulch from renewable and/or sustainable sources is appropriately
used by the municipality. Mulch is available for residential use.
12
18. Educational programs for all ages are available and promote
environmental initiatives such as rain barrels, backyard habitats, rain
gardens, solitary bee hotels, xeriscaping, chemical reduction, water
conservation, and green business practices.
19. Youth organizations such as Scouts, Green Teams, schools, and 4H
encourage involvement in environmental initiatives. Participants are
recognized for their efforts and/or achievements. Efforts are
communicated to the public through social media, newsletters, city
website, and other methods.
20. Programs are in place to encourage, recruit, and/or engage
volunteers of all ages and segments of the community’s environmental
initiatives. Volunteers from businesses, residents, schools, and/or
organizations participate in events, programs, boards, and promotions.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
5. Environmental Initiatives 160 0 0.00%
13
CELEBRATING HERITAGE: Recognition, designation, protection,
commemoration, and celebration of historical, cultural, natural,
agricultural, and industrial resources.
No
t
A
p
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
(N
/
A
)
No
t
S
t
a
r
t
e
d
(N
/
S
)
0
In
P
r
o
g
r
e
s
s
1-
2
In
P
l
a
c
e
3-
5
Su
r
p
a
s
s
e
s
6-
8
1. Historic Preservation, Historic Society, and/or Architectural Review
Board are available, active, and/or interact with the community.
Activities/responsibilities include, but are not limited to, review
proposals for construction and rehabilitation, promote historic
preservation incentives, submit recommendations to National
Register, and designate local historic landmarks.
2. Historic Preservation ordinances are enacted and enforced.
Ordinances effectively provide commercial and/or residential
designation, guidance, and/or protection. Ordinances, policies, and
restoration resources are available, easily accessible, and
communicated.
3. Historic districts, neighborhoods, structures, landmarks and/or
objects are identified and/or labeled. Designation by such
organizations as the Department of Archives and History and/or
National Register are in place and/or in progress.
4. Cemeteries and monuments are in place and well maintained.
Historical plaques are used and well maintained. Examples of plaque
locations include, but are not limited to, buildings, sites, residences,
districts, historical events and people, and battle sites.
5. Historical museums and/or interpretive displays are available and
maintained. Events and educational opportunities are held for all age
groups to utilize historic assets.
6. Archives, artifacts, community records, and/or oral histories are
collected, safely stored, preserved, and/or catalogued.
7. Volunteers and/or staff are trained to maintain historical sites,
archives, records, collections, artifacts, structures, and/or landscapes.
Historic educators are trained to effectively communicate a
community’s history.
8. Historic preservation incentives are available and promoted.
Incentives may include but are not limited to tax credits, waived
permit fees, eased setbacks, and/or rebates.
14
9. Programs are in place for the purchase, installation, and/or long-
term maintenance of memorial features. Examples include, but are not
limited to, memorial benches, trees, brick pathways, and lamp posts.
10. Natural and agricultural areas are identified and protected.
Designation by such organizations as The Nature Conservancy, the
National Park Service, Department of Natural Resources are in place
and/or in progress.
11. Parades, festivals, events, and/or programs are held to
commemorate the community’s heritage, culture, and/or diversity.
Participants represent all segments of the community.
12. Programs and/or events are available to bring history to life.
Examples include, but are not limited to, theater dramas,
reenactments, and historic characters at public events.
13. Community heritage and/or cultural diversity are supported and
promoted to all ages. Educational opportunities such as websites,
publications, tours, interpretive signage, mobile apps, and/or
programs.
14. Youth of all ages and abilities participate in historical programs.
Examples include, but are not limited to, lectures, tours, events,
reenactments, research, and reader’s theater. Participants are
recognized for their efforts and/or achievements.
15. Programs are in place to encourage, recruit, and/or engage
volunteers of all ages and segments of the community’s heritage
preservation efforts. Volunteer representatives from businesses,
residents, schools, and/or organizations participate in events,
programs, boards, and promotions.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
6. Celebrating Heritage 120 0 0.00%
15
OVERALL IMPRESSION: Adequate and effective amenities are provided
and in good condition. The community is welcoming, attractive, and
leaves a positive impression.
No
t
A
p
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
(N
/
A
)
No
t
S
t
a
r
t
e
d
(
N
/
S
)
0
In
P
r
o
g
r
e
s
s
1-
2
In
P
l
a
c
e
3-
5
Su
r
p
a
s
s
e
s
6-
8
1. Signage ordinances are enacted and enforced. Ordinances address
temporary stake signs, billboards, and/or permanent signs. Enforcement
helps to reduce visual clutter and/or helps to enhance the community’s
identity.
2. Ordinances are enacted and enforced to address issues such as
overgrown lots, abandoned vehicles, unscreened dumpsters, public
nuisances, unregulated garage sales, building facades, and/or empty
storefronts windows. Ordinances are routinely reviewed and updated as
needed.
3. Code enforcement/compliance officer is available. Violations are
detected, investigated, and/or resolved. Code enforcement includes but is
not limited to Public health, safety, consumer protection, building
standards, and land use.
4. Communication of ordinances is easily accessible. Examples of
communication include, but are not limited to, lectures, print, city
website, library, City Hall, and social media.
5. First impressions are positive in residential, business, and/or municipal
areas. Properties, buildings, structures grounds, decks, patios, and yards
are neat and in order. Examples include, but are not limited to, lack of
vandalism, graffiti, broken windows, peeling or faded paint, and rust.
Programs exist and are effective to minimize graffiti, litter, and nuisance
areas.
6. Community infrastructure is in good condition. Examples include, but
are not limited to, roadways, road shoulders, curbs, corner pads, medians,
sidewalks, railroad crossings, sewers, transformers, and/or utility poles.
7. Community amenities are in good condition. Examples include, but are
not limited to, signs, site furnishings, public restrooms, water features,
lamp posts, benches, bicycle racks, drinking fountains, trash and recycling
receptacles, safe parking, proper lighting, crosswalks/pavement markings,
containers, planters, and/or cigarette receptacles.
8. Community is accessible to people of all abilities. Examples include, but
are not limited to, public buildings, parking, sidewalks, public
transportation, playgrounds, parks, sports fields, and trails.
16
9. Wayfinding signage is visible, attractive, and in appropriate locations
throughout the community. Signage adequately lists directional
information and/or areas of interest.
10. Public art is located throughout the community. Features such as
banners, murals, and/or statues are used, attractive, and effective.
11. Year-round seasonal decorations are used in key areas. The
decorations are well maintained and attractive. Examples include, but are
not limited to, lighting, ornamental displays, wreaths, planters, luminaries,
and displays in government buildings, residential homes, and storefronts.
12. Pet waste policies are posted and/or enforced. Pet clean-up stations
are available throughout the community. Stations are monitored and
stocked.
13. Volunteers participate in community improvement initiatives.
Examples include but are not limited to Habitat for Humanity, home repair
programs, disaster relief, and clean-up days.
14. Programs are in place to encourage, recruit, and/or engage volunteers
of all ages and segments of the community’s overall impression.
Volunteers from businesses, residents, schools, and/or organizations
participate in events, programs, boards, and promotions.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
7. Overall Impression 112 0 0.00%
17
EVALUATION TOUR PREPARATION AND ACTIONS: Community's
readiness prior to and the action during the Evaluation Tour
including an Informative Community Profile, preparedness prior
to Advisors’ arrival, and effective content during the Evaluation
Tour.
No
t
A
p
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
(N
/
A
)
Un
m
e
t
(
U
/
M
)
0
Me
t
1
1. Community contact was available for pre-visit meeting for
introductions and discussion of preparations.
2. Community Profile was provided to Advisors at least two weeks
prior to the first official tour date.
3. Community Profile includes contacts with emails and positions.
4. Community Profile from a returning community includes what
is new and implemented from previous Advisors'
recommendations (scored as Not Applicable for a new
community).
5. Community Profile includes a map with tour boundaries and a
daily itinerary.
6. Evaluation Tour provided a representative cross-section of the
community.
7. Advisors met with elected/appointed municipal leaders and
staff.
8. Advisors met with the business and non-profit community.
9. Advisors met with volunteers.
10. Advisors met with the media.
11. Advisors were asked to give a presentation.
12. A tour wrap-up session was conducted with a community
representative.
13. Enough time was allotted for Advisors to work on the
Evaluation Report in a quiet place with adequate Wi-Fi.
Totals: Possible Points Actual Points Percent
8. Evaluation Tour Preparation and Actions 13 0 0.00%
18
DISCLAIMERS:
1. Communities are responsible for addressing the metrics in the Community Profile, Evaluation Tour
Itinerary, and during the Evaluation Tour. Please note that the metric calculations contained herein are
final, and each community is encouraged to focus on any changes during the following year’s entry in the
America in Bloom Level 3 program.
2. All information is given to the best of America in Bloom’s knowledge and is believed to be accurate. Your
conditions of use and application of recommendations and/or suggested products are beyond our
control. There is no warranty expressed or implied regarding the accuracy of any given data or
statements. America in Bloom specifically disclaims any responsibility or liability relating to the use of the
recommendations and/or suggested products and shall under no circumstances whatsoever, be liable for
any special, incidental, or consequential damages which may arise from such use.
3. Reference herein to any specific commercial products, processes, or service by trade named trademark
manufacturer or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation
or favoring by America in Bloom. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein shall not be used
for advertising or product endorsement purposes.