Tower-Soudan Historical Society

Tower, MN — August 19, 2025 — The Tower-Soudan Historical Society’s popular History Talks on Main Street series, features author and Minnesota Star Tribune columnist Aaron J. “Minnesota” Brown. The History Talk event, titled “A World of Stumps and Slash”,” will take place on Tuesday, September 9 at 5:30 PM at the Herbert R. Lamppa Civic Center in Tower. The History Talk will precede the Society’s Annual Dinner Meeting.

The Annual Dinner Meeting is open to the public. Dinner tickets are $30 per person and include admission to the History Talk. Dinner reservations are required by September 2 and may be made by calling or texting Linda Folstad at 218-750-0193. Advance payment by cash, check or Venmo is appreciated.

“A World That Grew From Stumps and Slash,” focuses on the history of northern Minnesota’s old-growth forests and the impact of logging and mining on the landscape and its people. From the stumps and slash piles left behind, a new world emerged—one that permanently reshaped both the land and the people who lived there.

The presentation examines how the era of logging and mining transformed the region, creating a “new world” from the remnants of the old forests. Brown emphasizes the enduring lessons we can learn from this period of significant change, particularly as similar transformations are likely to occur again. 

“This talk reminds us that the great changes of the past still echo today,” said Nancy Larson, TSHS President. “Aaron Brown brings both deep historical knowledge and a personal connection to the Iron Range that make this story especially compelling.”

About the Speaker:

Aaron J. Brown is an author, columnist, and editorial board member for the Minnesota Star Tribune. A lifelong Iron Ranger who grew up on a family-owned salvage yard, Brown spent 21 years teaching communication at Minnesota North College in Hibbing. He is the author of Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range and is currently writing a new book for the University of Minnesota Press about Hibbing mayor Victor Power and his historic battle with U.S. Steel. He also publishes MinnesotaBrown.com and hosts several podcasts on Iron Range history and culture.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025

• Time: 5:30 PM

• Location: Herbert R. Lamppa Civic Center, Tower

• Admission: $5 for History Talk only

All proceeds from this History Talk event will support Tower-Soudan Historical Society programming and the videography of the presentation, preserving it for future generations.

About the Tower-Soudan Historical Society

The Tower-Soudan Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the Tower-Soudan-Lake Vermilion area. Through exhibits, programs, and events, the Society connects residents and visitors with the stories of the people, businesses, and cultures that shaped the Vermilion Range. From restoring historic landmarks like the 1895 Fire Hall to hosting community events, the Society works to ensure local history remains a source of pride, learning, and inspiration for generations to come.

For more information, visit www.towersoudanhistory.com or follow us on Facebook at Tower-Soudan Historical Society.