Akeley, MN

Akeley was the site of a small resort owned by friends from Inver Grove Heights.  About 12 years ago we spent several weekends there and used the Heartland bike trail that runs from Park Rapids to Walker, MN and through Akeley.

The trail starts here in Park Rapids following a Rail-to-Trail route.  The detail on the lower right shows the bridge construction which dates to about 1900.  As railroad companies cease operating and maintaining rail lines, many have been converted to bike trails.

This is the bike trail in Akeley.

Paul Bunyan's ox Babe is painted on this building.

Here is Paul Bunyan himself.  Can you find Sue?

We had reservations for this theater in Akeley.

Akeley had many hotels, bars and other buildings in from 1890 to 1920 but then the lumbering that created the wealth and jobs moved on after a fine stand of white pine was depleted.  This building was purchased 23 years ago for $1 and $3,000 in back taxes.  This is their 22nd year of performance.

It makes an intimate theatre for patrons.

This a warm-up act.  All performers, while professionals, live in the area surrounding Akeley.

The show lasted from the 7:15 PM warm up until 10:30 PM with a 15 minute intermission.  They played a mix of bluegrass, country and other styles with a special 1950's rock number.  This was played by the young man second from the right who will be a freshman at Bemidji State University.  The man on the left has had a profession career playing with famous bands all over the USA.

We enjoyed it so much that we regret not having seen it before but we intend to visit it again sometime.