Free Presentation – Knife River Legacy, Past to Present

Two Harbors Public Library

320 Waterfront Drive

Knife River is one of the most important rivers along the American north shore of Lake Superior. People have continuously lived along the river for thousands of years up to the present-day, making use of the abundant resources found there. Among these resources are fish, copper, timber, and various animals such as beavers. The tradition of fishing was practiced by both indigenous people and eventually local commercial fisherman. The American Fur Company established a commercial fish collection station at the mouth of the river in 1837. The arrival of a major logging railroad lead to the establishment of the village of Knife River in 1898. Copper prospecting, mining and extensive timber harvesting were all exercised at different points in time. Changes in the river and its tributaries from post­glacial times to the present will be shown.