MN NICE Members (Photo courtesy of Heather Edwards)
I’m fortunate to be part of a fantastic local writers group, MN NICE (Novelists Inspiring Christian Excellence), the Minnesota chapter of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). We’re scheduled to meet once per month–usually we invite a speaker or teacher to share with us, but about once a year we escape the meeting room and take a field trip. (Is that what they’re called when adults take them?)
Anyway, as someone who absorbs more when learned outside of the classroom, I was thrilled to be able to make the trek up to Taylors Falls, MN to tour the Folsom House.
This house on Angel Hill was completed in 1855 by lumber baron William Folson, who came all the way from Maine. Folson’s interests stretched far beyond lumber as he invested in many local enterprises and was even involved in politics. He really was a jack-of-all-trades.
My daughter playing the piano. And yes, that is me in the mirror.
(Photo courtesy of Heather Edwards)
Our tour guide was not only knowledgeable about the home and the Folsom family history, but he was clearly passionate about it, excitedly pointing out Folsom artifacts and sharing family anecdotes.
So, if you ever find yourself in Minnesota, it’s worth a drive to beautiful Taylors Falls to check out this home. (Oh, and I’d highly recommend grabbing some hard ice cream from Schoony’s Malt Shop while you’re there!)
What sites do you love to explore in your area?
Comments 6
Who’s the brave man in your group? I bet he doesn’t write in the romance genre. 😉
You’re so right. He writes spec fiction, YA, I believe. And we do have a number of male writers in our group, but Don was the only one to show.
I was sorry I couldn’t come but as a result of working hard that afternoon our 5 Scottish highland cows were able to go into their re-fenced larger pasture and they are ecstatic! I’m hoping to come next time.
We missed you, Delores! Hopefully you can make it next time.
And I glad your cows are happy. 🙂
Love the piano! and the enthusiasm of the docent. Living history is so much more interesting than lists of dates and rulers.
Absolutely, LeAnne! History in school bored me, but seeing it–experiencing it–brings it to life. Especially when the guide is as enthusiastic as ours was.