Mike's family has lived in the Whitewater Valley since 1890. Mike shared memories growing up in the valley and the family business at Mauer Brothers Tavern in Elba, Minnesota.
Anna was born and raised in Winona and shared memories her Aunt, Mildred Sebo, who was instrumental in planning the first Territorial Centennial Pageant held at Whitewater State park in 1933 and who helped found the Winona Historical Society.
Barbara is a historian and author of the book, "Hard Work and a Good Deal: The Civilian Conservation Corps in Minnesota." She shared memories her experience interviewing some of the African American men who were involved in the CCC in Minnesota.
Bob is a Soil Conservationist and shared memories growing up in the Whitewater Area and memories of his father, John, who was also a soil conservationist and who died along with his wife in the historic flood of 2007.
Bob shares his memories of being an area biology technician for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and helping with the wild turkey reintroduction. He also talks about his time as Assistant Manager of the Whitewater Wildlife Management Area.
This interview contains some outdated information as the research discussed has since been updated. Dr. Jefferson is a retired Winona State University ecology professor and amateur historian. She shared memories how she became interested in researching early abolitionists in the Winona area and what she's discovered about the possible connections to the Underground Railroad in southeast Minnesota.
Dr. Hyman is a history professor at Winona State University and author of the book, "Dakota Women's Work: Creativity, Culture, & Exile." She shared memories her pathway to becoming a history professor and how she became interested in the traditional arts and crafts of Dakota women.
Frank shared memories growing up in the Whitewater area, working at Whitewater State Park during college, and talks about his father, Alex, who farmed in the Whitewater Valley and later led soil conservation tours of the Whitewater Valley.
Jeff is a professional geologist and amateur historian who lives near the park. He shared memories the unique characteristics of the Driftless area and some of the hidden history of the region.
Jill was the editor for the St. Charles Press at the time of this interview and shared memories about former editor, L. A. Warming, and his role in lobbying for the establishment of Whitewater State Park in 1919.
Joan and her sister, Deb Scherbring, share about growing up in the Whitewater Valley and memories of their father, George Meyer, who was the Manager of the Whitewater Wildlife Management Area from 1948-1983.
John wrote the Outdoor Column for the Rochester Bulletin for decades and spent a lot of time fishing and hunting in the Whitewater Valley. He shared memories his experiences in the valley and his collaborations with former park naturalist, Dave Palmquist.
Lois and her brother, Everett Johnson, share about growing up in the Whitewater Area and history stories they were told about the area. Lois also talks about her husband, Jim Sletten, who was a forest ranger and park manager.
Lorry is an amateur historian who has written several books about Frontenac, Minnesota. She shares stories about Frontenac and her family ancestors who lived in the Whitewater area.
Martha was 105 years old at the time of this interview. She shared memories raising her family in Fremont, Minnesota and the history of the Fremont Store.
Dr. Sajady is an Afghan American and shares her outdoor stories and perspectives as a pediatrician who encourages families to get outdoors and experience nature.