The Itasca State Park Centennial Wagon Train proved to be one of the most celebrated events to occur in Minnesota in 1991. The wagon train took place over a sixteen-day period (June 8-23, 1991), starting at the Capitol in St. Paul, and ending 279 miles north at Itasca State Park. With fifty-one wagons, 250 horses, and approximately 400 participants, the largest wagon train to take place in the state up to that point ended successfully with no loss of person, horse, or wagon.  

 

A large part of the success of the event must be given to the expertise of the Traffic Control Contingent that moved the wagon train so sucessfully from St. Paul to Itasca, which was lead by Greg Loftis. In addition the Minnesota State Highways Patrol and the Sheriff’s departments from all ten counties through which the wagon train traveled assisted. Many other county and township officials, fire departments, and county sheriffs’ posses were involved in maintaining road safety for all participants.  In conjunction with the highway patrols, Conservation Officer Roger Lueth (the legal authority representing the state of Minnesota) was the designated Wagon Master and, while on horseback, was able to move through the wagon train, maintaining complete legal and ethical standing for all participants during the entire trip.  Doctor Galen Adkins, Minnesota State Veterinarian (Pine River), rode the entire way as well, ready to assist should any unforeseen circumstance occur with any of the horses; thankfully, the group of participants brought knowledge and expertise in both horses and the quality of equipment. 

 

The event included the approval and support of many top officials and influential people in the State of Minnesota, including St. Paul Mayor, Jim Scheibel; Minnesota Governor Arnie Carlson; DNR Commissioner, Rod Sando; Parks and Recreation Director, Bill Morrissey; DNR officials from Region I; Itasca State Park Manager, Mike Kovacovich; additionally, many service clubs, businesses and individuals assisted the participants during the trip. The wagon train covered many back roads and trails, focusing on towns and landmarks not typically recognized during state events. 

 

The wagon train’s wide scope of public involvement allowed the event to be selected as Minnesota’s finalist for the “Take Pride in America” program for its outstanding contributions to America’s natural and cultural experiences.  This national event awarded the wagon train a certificate of recognition, which was received by Keith Butler (Wagon Train Organizer), along with a letter of congratulations from Minnesota Governor Arnie Carlson.  Recognizing this event as “…the most notable special event in 100 years of state park history”, Merle DeBoer (Regional Manager, Region I) stated, “No greater tribute could be given to Minnesota or its State Park system, than this extra ordinary example of the power of citizens in action for the benefit of all Minnesotans.”  No truer statement could encapsulate the desire of those involved in the Centennial Wagon Train as they invested their lives into honoring and preserving the history of Minnesota.

 

We want to give a special thanks to each of the committee members whose hard work and commitment made the wagon train such a great sucess. 

 

Keith Butler - Trail Boss

Roger Lueth - Wagon Master

Cleve Stillwell - Scout, Historian

Mary Frahm - Secretary

Marilyn Lanners - Treasurer

Ken Thole - Park Ranger

Mike Kovacovich - Itasca State Park Manager

Claude Branham - Liason

Judy Haroldson - Entertainment, Veterinarian Liason

Bea Fredrickson - Evening Meal Coordinator