A relatively new series at the Duluth Folk School continues with a close look at how the city got its unique shape. Tonight's Duluth 101 presentation by Tony Dierckins explores the history of Duluth's neighborhoods, industry, landscape, and people.
"You get to learn a little something about your city that you might not have known," says Dierckins about the Duluth 101 series. The regular Thursday night gatherings (the second Thursday of every month) at the Folk School start at 6pm. Past presentations have included the Aerial Lift Bridge, labor in Duluth, railroads, and the celebration of Christmas in the city.
So, why does Duluth have such a long and narrow footprint? Dierckins will get into the details tonight, but the general idea is a mix of geology and industry. "When Duluth was first platted as a town in 1856 it was bout 12 square blocks," says Dierckins. "By the 1950s we're 27 miles long and 3 miles wide at our widest point... it's an interesting shape for the city and I'm going to walk you through."
The café will be open prior to the free event, which begins at 6pm. More information can be found on the Duluth Folk School Facebook page.
You can hear Community Connection every Tuesday and Thursday at 8am on Northland Morning.