As a transplant to the Perham area, I have gained invaluable knowledge and developed a greater sense of community and history through the research I have done for these columns every week.
What I have discovered is that in addition to a rich pioneer history, the Perham area is fortunate to have several wonderful opportunities and resources available through which this history may be explored.
Conducting research in this area has been both rewarding and convenient due to the History Museum of East Otter Tail County. Perham natives, transplants, and guests should all take advantage of the presence of a remarkable museum located right in Perham. In addition, should one wish to delve further into Perham area history, there are several exceptional resources available.
Several months ago, I wrote a column commemorating the life and work of Henry Kemper, an early Perhamite.
It was a fitting tribute as his collection of writings has been an important book for the production of this column nearly every week. The collection is entitled Perham In Its Early Days, and includes Kempers personal recollections, written at the turn of the century, of Perhamites and Perham history.
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Kemper has a delightful sense of humor and a pleasant writing style. I encourage you to read it should you find yourself with an interest in Perham history.
Another wonderful collection of essays and articles is 125 Years and Still on Track. This was produced for Perhams 125th anniversary and includes short historical accounts of various local businesses, churches, and schools. In addition, it includes a comprehensive timeline of Perham history. This is another interesting read for any history enthusiast.
Both of these books are available at the History Museum of East Otter Tail Countys official store, The Best of Times in Perham.
Finally, and perhaps more importantly, the History Museum of East Otter Tail County has available to any interested seeker a vast database of historical information available on the internet. By accessing the official website of the History Museum of East Otter Tail County at www.historymuseumeot.com , one can search the following databases:
Perham Enterprise Bulletin Newspaper
East Otter Tail County History Books
Records of Births and Deaths in Perham (1882-1900)
New York Mills Newspaper Search in English (or Finnish!)
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Historical Photograph Search
History of the Finns in Minnesota Book Search
Having these resources available is quite unique in rural Minnesota, and I should like to encourage any interested individual to take advantage of them.
