Class ^^^y Gopght^j". COF/RIGHT DEPOSnV TALES FROM THE MINNESOTA FOREST FIRES A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF A RURAL SCHOOL TEACHER By ESTHER E. LARSON Hi Coiiyriglit, 1912 By ESTHER E. I>ARF:0N €CU31G636 INDEX TO LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Page The Ferg-uson Home Before the Fire 10 Business Sections of Beaudette and Spooner before the Dis- aster 20 Forest Fire Near tlie Two Towns on Oct. 7th 21 The C. N. R. Depot of Beaudette 23 The International Bridge 24 A Residence Section of Rainy River, Ont 2G Shevlin-Mathieu Mill Plant 29 Remains of Spooner and Beaudette after the Catastrophe. . . .32 Ruins in Beaudette Residence Section 33 Destroyed Structure of a Spooner Residence '. 3"4 Ruins of a Residence in Beaudette 35 Spooner Public School 35 Ruins of the Spooner Hospital 36 Temporary Post Office at Spooner, Oct. 12 37 Ruins of Lenox Hotel 38 Shevlin-Mathieu Lbr. Co.'s Boarding Camp Caring for Fire Refugees 44 Relief \^'anagan Camp 46 Main Street of Beaudette Two Weeks After Fire 47 Ruins of Lower Bridge and Boat-Docks 48 Early Pioneering in the North 52 Collection of A^egetahles on Market Day, 1911 53 Flower E.xhibition at Beaudette Fair, 1911 54 I<:.\hibition of Grain and Vegetables at Fair, 1911 54 Beaudette and Spooner Three Weeks After Fire 55 Arrival of liapid River Refugees 56 Henderson's Root-Cellar Where Many Lives Were Saved.... 59 Only Residence Surviving the Fire 59 INDEX TO LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS— Cont'd. Page Arrival of Co. K, of Bemidji and Governor Eberhart 60 Photograph of Gov. A. O. Eberhart 61 Early Relief Work at Beaudette 62 Militia Retiring After Council 63 Former Cathcart School at Beaudette 64 Ruins of Cathcart School at Beaudette 64 Mess Tent Where Soldiers Dined 65 Fire Refugees at Beaudette 65 Red Cross Hospital Camp 66 Red Cross Hospital With Attendants During Fire Period.... 67 Temporary Bank of Spooner 67 Vault of Beaudette Bank 68 Some Relief Hustlers 69 Burial Scene at Silver Creek 76 Memorial Services at Silver Creek 76 Trench Grave of Twenty-Seven Victims 77 Burial Rites at the Trench 78 Tent Town at Spooner 79 Future Co. "A" of Beaudette 81 Scene on Beaudette School Grounds 82 M. N. G. Barracks, Nov. 4, 1910 83 M. N. G. Barracks During Winter. 84 Doing Business Five Days After Fire 86 Beginning First House for S.-M. Lbr. Co 87 New Congregational Churcli 88 City Hall at Spooner 88 Two Towns Nine Months Afterwards 89 Harvesting Oats Near Beaudette 89 Citizens Marching to Cemetery 91 Scene in Cemetery on Memorial Day 91 First Memorial Services Observed 93 TALES FROM THE MINNESOTA FOREST FIRES. During the fall when large forest fires ravaged the northern regions of Minnesota, the ])i<)neers and others living there had many strange and thrilling experiences. Several weeks before the countr\' was visited by the great inflagration, smaller fires had started up in other parts of Beltrami and Itasca Counties, causing more or less damage. The summer had 1)een a dry one, so that fallen timljer, under])rush and the grassy marshes were in such condition as to give the flames a strong headway when they once began. Graceton, the little village where my story begins, was a secluded siding on the Canadian Northern Railroad in Beltrami County. It consisted of a depot, stores and just enough buildings to give it a name on the map. Some lumbering and agriculture were the chief occupations. The people were mostly early settlers, who had taken up the land as ''homesteaders." ]\Iany had been the diffi- culties they had met with as they came to make the wild region their new home. Rude log cabins, or, if in better circumstances, small frame houses were erected to serve as dwellings. As soon as possible, the plucky people began to clear away the thick forests surrounding their abodes, and gradually to enlarge the small patches of cultivated ground, so as to secure heavier crops. Plod- ding ox teams were most commonly used while tilling the soil ; and with the help of these the sturdy farmer 6 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires would toil, day in and day out, to achieve compensatory results; to change the wilderness into a fruitful agricul- tural region. It is not unusual to hear a pioneer of this section tell of his early experiences here. Often a bitter cold winter, with much ice and snow, was to be faced ; thus making the struggle for existence more severe. When stores were perhaps twenty, even thirty miles away, the settler would be obliged to carry flour and other provisions home on his back ; in many cases having only a foot-trail to follow through the woods. Not seldom the blood-curdling howls of a pack of gaunt wolves hailed his appearance among the trees ; the fierce creatures being kept at bay only by the flickering gleam of a lantern which they feared to approach. The mothers and wives, too, endured their full share of difficulties. They contentedly remained at home to perform household duties, and to shoulder responsibili- ties in caring for the children; often sacrificing accus- tomed enjoyments and luxuries — the companionship of old associates, and surroundings whose attractiveness was in marked contrast with those of the frontier home. Shortly before the "Great Fire" many had reached the height where visions of better times had begun to brighten their hopes ; the homes, in most instances, were now more comfortable ; larger areas of land were under cultivation, and the roads and railroad made the transpor- tation of supplies more convenient for them. A neat little schoolhouse was located in the center of the community where the children sought to obtain a share of knowledge, and often of amusement as well. Talcs From the M'uiucsota h'orcst /'ires 7 There, one day in Se|)tenil)er, [ fonnd m\-selt anionj;^ them. A nnmlier of i^irls and Ixjys sh\ly smiled a i^Teet- ing as the\- arrixrd. and ])rocee(le(l, more or k'S> l)oldly, to "size np" llie new teaelier. The l)nsy chiys llew l)y so (|niekly that not onee did the shadow of a ])()ssil)le danger linger in onr thonghts. Ont- side, the landscai)e was all aglow with the rieh ecjlors of Indian Summer; huge houquets of the golden-rod and hlue asters that so al)undantlv decked the country-sides, graced the sclioolroom at all times — tril)utes given ])y the happy little children. One l^eautiful morning — it was the 4th of Octoher — I started for the school, which was located ahout one mile from where I resided. With a light heart 1 hurried forth, thoroughly enjoying the songs of the hirds and tlie autunui-tinted foliage of the woods near the roadside. Little did I dream of the catastrophe to 1:)efall us that day, or of the thrilling adventures to be passed through. The forenoon slipped by rapidly; n.ot a cloud did we notice, nor the faintest sign of smoke, but about one o'clock we could distinguish it in the atmosi)here, where it liecame more and more discerna])le. I had often seen smoke so dense, from forest tires raging thirty miles away, that it was impossible to see objects at even two blocks' distance; therefore, at hrst, 1 did not pay much attention to this. An hour later, in the midst of recitations. 1 felt wor- ried, or rather experienced a sud.len nervousness. Xot knowing the reason, 1 concluded it was l)ecause I was not accustomed to be near burning regions, having none but children with me. The little ones in the lower grades 8 Talcs Froiii tJic Minnesota Forest Fires were sent out to play ; tlie older pupils requested to study their remaining lessons, that they might be dismissed earlier than usual. I did not think any serious event would occur, but knew the children would be safer with their own folks if anything should happen. Only the week before, the people of Cedar Spur, a village two miles distant, had fought surrounding fires ; so we wondered if the wind had caused them to burn anew. I made frequent rounds of inspection outside, keeping a constant watch for further signs of danger. I had barely returned to my work after one of those "rounds," when one of the boys cried out excitedly: "Oh. look at the flames." Dark volumes of smoke rose above the tree-tops, as it seemed, only half a mile from the school. Now and then tongues of fire leaped up, as the flames were then sweeping through a dry Ijalsam grove. Pale and frightened were those little faces, as I gave them an apprehensive glance ; but after the first shock of the moment, they all remained admiraljly self-controlled. After ringing in the younger pupils, we hastily donned our wraps ; and, stopping neither for books nor anything else, we rushed out in search of a place of safety. Two of the children, Clara and Melvin, ran home- wards as fast as their little legs would permit ; for their home seemed to lie in a safe direction. Fortunately they reached it safely, though shortly afterwards their home was also surrounded bv the destructive fires. Neal Paul- sen, a small boy from near Cedar Spur, was told to go with them as it was now impossible for him to get through to his own home. Also this place was the near- est, in case his anxious relatives should come in search Talcs From tlic Minnesota forest Fires 9 of him. \\ luMi one of IIkmii came tliillicr, a few hours later, an anuisino- sio-ht oreeled him. Instead of an injured or friohtened httle i^roup, all the youngsters were sitting com])lacently on or near the cracker-hox in the cellar, gayly munching their feast of crackers. Outside were the parents, doing their utmost to protect the house. A\hen coming in search of Neal, Mr. Brown, who had been sent on this errand, had great difficulty in pushing his way through the burning region. Only by lying close to the ground, at repeated intervals, did he succeed in reaching his destination, for the air was so filled with heavy smoke and cinders that he could not breathe other- wise. All the other children were with me. We headed for the large meadows and plowed field near Ferguson's place. The smaller tots clung to my hands as we hurried on; the others ran ahead of us. Poor, frightened little dears. In spite of my cheerful assurances, tears would come, for they fully realized our peril. It did not appear quite so imminent then as it did a few moments later. Looking back I could see liow the fire was apparently chasing us, the terrific wind aiding its course. As we came to the cross-roads close to our destination, imagine our horror, when we were confronted by two other gigantic fires, rising high over the tall tree-tops. The children screamed in terror as the hot blast and cinders struck our faces, and the mufiled, crackling sounds fell upon our ears ; l)ut as yet the fires were on the other side of the wide-spreading fields; and the children o1)ediently flung down their lunch-buckets and raced to their homes. All lived in the same direction, and it was just a short lo Talcs Fvoin the Minnesota Forest Fires distance now from the corner where we stood. The frantic parents were more than reHeved when their Httle ones appeared safe and unharmed. The danger had come over the vicinity so suddenly that no one was given time to reach the school huilding- and warn us of our perilous situation. Two little scholars remained with me at J. B. Fergu- son's place, where I boarded, their home being near the depot at Graceton, which had just been entirely destroyed. We did not know of this then. Finding Airs. Ferguson gone, after Mr. Robinson, a neighbor, had searched high and low for her, the two The Home of .1. B. Ferguson, Taken Slioilly Before the Graceton Fire. Talcs Troiii the M inncsota Torcst I'ircs i i children ami I slarlcd willi liini f< t llir railroad. liMpin,-;- to board s«mik' rclicf-lrain wliicli \vr kiuw would l)c sent to our rescue from a near-l)\ station. lla\in.-- covered part of the distance, we found it inipo>sihle to i)roceed, on account <»f ih.e dense sulTocatinj^- smoke. The roarini^ fires, crackliui;- loudly in the dry underbrush, were on either side of the road, coveriui;- nearl\ the whole stretch betore us. Back lo the Ferguson house we all sped, wonderiuij: where it would be safest to remain. Xear the root-house was a large stack of hay; and, if it should burn, that place would be a very dangerous shelter. The well in the vard did not look very inviting, so we took ref- uge in the cottage: which, in our favor, was tin-covered. Even inside, the smoke was very dense, almost choking us as we inlialed it. Mr. Robinson therefore drew from the well several buckets of water; and, by frequently dipping towels in it and holding them to our faces, we were able to breathe more easily while awaiting the com- ing contingency. Ella and kjlwin, the two children who were witli me. were all the while much excited ; their tear-stained cheeks showing their fear and distress. Seating them in a corner wdiere they could not see how our "enemy" progressed. 1 happened to give them crackers also, similar to the feast the three schoolmates I mentioned before had partaken of: emptving the jar so they would have sufficient to occupy their minds as well as mouths with for a while. The sight was, indeed. i)rovocative of humor, had one been in the mood for it. 1m )r we three still embraced our wet towels while eating: they being the only relief for 12 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires our smarting eyes and throats. ^l\\ Robinson busied himself by making preparations outside, around the house : also placing a ladder in the well, so we might go down in case the house was doomed. Then he set off to see about some aged neighbors living in the midst of the forest from whence the fires seemed to have come. They were all safe. One, a cripple, living alone, was in his cabin when the fire swept by. Though all around his place w^as burned, not a spark injured the dwelling. But let me return to my former su1:)ject: — The chil- dren and I were alone, after Mr. Robinson left us to go in quest of these settlers. Going from window to win- dow, I saw how the atmosphere was every now and then lighted up by a deep lurid hue. This would usually occur when the flames flared up in some fine birch grove, or in such inflammable material as a clump of dry fir-trees. When, instead, the fires were creeping along like so many destructive demons, the scene would change to a dark evening effect hiding completely the rays of the sun dur- ing the remainder of the day. Nearer and nearer, all around our frail shelter, did the fires advance. Denser did the smoke become ; louder did the crackling sound in our ears. We knew^ if the buildings caught fire there would be little chance to escape death, either through suffocation or by l^eing cremated. jNIeanwhile there was nothing w^e could do but wait — wait until something or someone would put an end to the suspense and monotony. While we were sitting there, one of the little ones inno- cently asked "Oh, do you think we are going to burn up, teacher?" It certainly was a rather startling question, but knowing the dear child expected some comforting Talcs From Ihc Minnesota Forest Fires 13 word in rei)l\ I answered decidedly : "W'liy no, of course not; God always liears little children, and He will surely take care of us." That settled the matter, and J did notice, after that, liow childisli lips were niovino^ in silent prayers, such as only little ones can send up unto Heaven. At ahout seven o'clock, Mr. McClernen, another neij^h- hor living- nearly a mile from where we were, hurried over to hnd out whether any human l)eino- was still at Ferguson's. He had heard we had gone, in an effort to reach the railroad, in the afternoon, yet something prompted him to investigate ere evening drew near. Oh, how glad we were to have someone come to our relief. AVe did so dread spending the night there alone, not knowing what would happen before morning. Leading the two children, Mr. McClernen rapidly guided the procession through the 1)linding smoke to his own home. All around us it was burning, being mostly brush near the road. In going part of the way, we passed only a few feet from the blazing l)ushes. What a pro- tection we then found in our wet towels, for the heat was intense. Arriving at the house, we found it crowded, for several others had also come to the place. One family, Canfield's, had been spending the day at this home, thus happening to be there when the fire occurred. Oth- ers, knowing it would h^ easier to protect themselves by uniting all forces in "fire fighting," came hither with that intention. It was so dark when we reached the gate that it was necessary to light the lam])s inside. The hres had not yet surrounded the place ; but presto — change ; the gale swept the flames up the tall birches and pines so 14 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires fiercely that the skies were the next moment hke a fire- red oven. It was a terrible but magnificent sight. Our place of shelter stood in a field quite close to the burning forest. Brands of fire were showered far and near, adding to the perils of our situation. No one knew but that we might all perish on the spot, for the place seemed entirely surrounded for some time. But, with the sturdy grit so common among our northern pioneers, the elders kept at work. They were determined to win out, if their efforts would be of any avail. Four men were dowm by the stables, trying to protect them, as well as the winter supply of hay near by ; while the brave wives and mothers scurried around outside the dwelling, beating out the sparks which flew about constantly. One of the women had even managed to get up on the roof, where she sat in state or scuttled after those malicious sparks as need demanded. When the worst was over, she gladly made her descent, having put out many small yet very dangerous l)lazes. Mabel, an older pupil, and I were inside, singing to the babies and amusing the younger children. Whenever we ventured outside to have a glimpse of the wonderful proceedings of the fire, an uncomfortable stinging of eyes and throats would quickly drive us back again. In the house the air was also heavy, but in contrast with that outside was much more breath- able. What a time we all had, to Ije sure ! Thus, w^e continued till late in the evening, when the fires died down a little. After snatching a midnight lunch, the watchers took turns in guarding the buildings. The children were deep in sluml)cr after retiring at such a belated hour. Even the "grown ups" changed 7\i!cs From iJic Minnesota Forest Fires T5 about in trxiii!:;- to i;et a few winks of slccj), and kcc'])ini; a watchful eye on the outdoor occurrences. The rooms which had been ti.o-litly closed to keej) out the smoke, were soon ratlier warm; so wc would fain i;-o outside in the midnii^ht dusk, hoping to get a few whiffs of fresh air. How impossible it seemed ! \un- smoke, — smoke was everywhere. ( )h, how we longed for a breath of ])ure air, which we were unable to get. About two o'clock in the morning the wind had calmed down. The ])lackened tree-trunks were diml} discerned in the darkness, as here and there piles of brush and wood were still burning, glowing like so many bon- fires in the distance. No sounds were heard, except the snapping of sparks or the dull thud of some forest giant as it fell amid that scene of devastation. During this time. Air. Canfield, on whose land the school had been situated, came over in search of his son's family, who had l^een visiting at the AlcClernen home during the day. He had groped his way through ashes and fallen timber, in spite of smoke and l)urnt-down bridges. Almost the first cpiestion that greeted him was 'Ts the schoolhouse still standing?" He then told how between two and three o'clock in the afternoon tlie forest fires had come speeding along so rapidly that it had been useless for liim to tr\- to save anything. His home. l)arns and hay were all destroyed. I lis life was saved l)y Ixing in a potato-field. Through the smok\- atmosphere he could see how flames arose, as from a burning building. As soon as he was able, he w^ent over to find the schoolhouse reduced i6 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires to a glowing mass of ruins. It was done so quickly that it was calculated that, if we had remained but five minutes more, we could not have escaped. How thankful we were, although it was hard to realize the truth. The children were now wide awake. What a dis- appointment it was to them when they heard that their school, with its shady playground, had been destroyed. Immediately their elders consoled them with the assur- ance that if most of them were not made homeless, some device would be planned by which they could continue their school work. One of the women kindly offered to give up one of her rooms for that purpose (as she heard her house had been left untouched) if no other place was available. Morning dawned at last, and with it a feeling of relief from the suspense of the night before. As early as possible, Mr. Bongfelt, the father of Ella and Edwin, appeared. He was overjoyed when he found them alive. He informed us that Graceton was all in ashes ; not a building remained. His wife and younger children, together with a neighbor's family, had escaped on a hand- car to Beaudette. Their husbands were at work on the railroad further up the track. Many other inhabitants had been picked up by relief trains which promptly arrived. Hearing of our peril from Mr. Robinson, who had just returned without finding us at the Ferguson home, he and two others hastened on to find us. The train crew promised to wait at the depot at Graceton as long as the peril from the surrounding fires would permit. Talcs Troiii I lie M iiiiicsota I'orcst Tires ly T\\v\ ai^rcvMl to ,<;ivc sio^nal-wliistles if ()l)li^ccl to go ahead. According- to c\e-\vitncsscs, the train did not start forward until tlic aw fid llanies leaped up around the sides of the traek ; then it seemed almost hopeless for the refugees to esea])e/'' \\-{ all in vain did the three men make the attempt to hnd us. Having gone ])art of the distance, Mr. liongfelt's companions gave up and turned hack, and lie alone pushed onward. AVhen he came to the garden fence, near the pl^ce where Mr. Rohinson claimed he had left us, he could not distinguish whether the house was standing or not. Tie tried to reach the spot by crawling on his hands and knees, hut found it useless. The lire and smoke were too much, even for him. So he, too, was obliged to give up and turn back with a heavy heart and all hopes of reaching us gone. Before morning, however, some one met him and told him where the children \vere. Mrs. Bongfelt was a happ\- mother that tirst morning, when she clasped her little ones in her arms again, after mourning them all night as dead. How delighted I was to hear that Ferguson's place was safe. When we left there the day before the brush was burning only ten or twelve yards from the stable buildings, while the fires were doing their best to destroy the fine grove of trees not far from the ha\stacks on the opposite side of the road. Over the burnt bridges, fallen logs, and through the charred fields to Ferguson's I hastened as soon as it was daylight. What a surprise to find tlie (^nce white-pa "nted ^This took place Oct. 4tli, the first afternoon of the fire. i8 Talcs From flic Mijiucsota Forest Fires cottage had changed to a dull 1)r()\vn color. So effective had the smoke and heat been during the night. Inside were cinders and ashes, strewn on floors, furniture and everything; but, as it appeared, none of the buildings were damaged or the stock injured. Poor stupefied- looking brutes those cattle then were, as, huddled together on a field, they seemed to ponder on what had happened. How solitary it was ! no song of birds, no gaily tinted foliage. What a contrast from the morning before ! I was not alone, however, for faithful old Coolie, the dog, greeted me with his friendly bark as soon as he spied me coming. He capered aliout in doggish delight, to show how glad he was to recognize a familiar face. The pet cats responded eagerly to my call. Soon there was an. all-around mutual congratulation between my animal friends and myself, that we were alive to take in the strange situation together. Knowing Mrs. Ferguson would return as soon as she was able, I sat down to view the ravaged landscape and watch for her, when I heard the early train signalling for Graceton ( ?). Soon, on the sooty stretch of land, I saw two human forms slowly approaching. It proved to be my friend, accompanied by my big brother ; who, fearing the worst, had taken the first train from Beaudette. How pleased I was to announce that we had all come out unin- jured, and that not even a fowl had perished on Ferg- uson's place. Only the beautiful timber of yesterday showed sad marks of the fire's work. Mrs. Ferguson, poor little woman, had, in spite of her own safety, passed a terril)le night, not knowing but Talcs from flic Minnesota I'orcst I'ircs 19 that their h(inu\ slock and all else were o-one ; or whether I was alive, after such a scene as slie had witnessed when tlie lelief train pulled out from the villa-e. Her hus- l)and, ])ein^ temporarily absent, did not receive in time the delaved message telling of the coming fire, so did not reach Graceton until two days later. After the joyful greetings and congratulations were over, that brother of mine spied something in the turnip field, which to him seemed pathetic as well as very amus- ing. It proved to be my trunk, which Ella and I had laboriouslv lugged down to safety. Then with a few^ jocose remarks, such as suggesting a "snap shot" of us sitting on that trunk and amid the blazing surroundings, this wearying subject was dropped. Instead, we tried to realize that the dreadful crisis was over, and how grate- ful we ought to be for God's great goodness. The air was very oppressive and murky for several days afterwards; especially at night, when the smoke would enter the rooms and almost seem to stille us. To think the pure country air could change to such as this! But it caused us to appreciate its great value so nmch more afterwards. Xo lives were lost in this comnnmity ; but there were many very narrow escapes. Though everyone sufifered material losses, more or less, all were tliankful that they had not met with a greater calamity. Before presenting the next catastrophe, the towns of Spooner and Beaudette will be introduced to the readers. These places are located twelve miles west of Graceton, on the very frontier of the State. The Rainy River separates them from the Canadian shore, and the town 20 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires of Rainy River (Ontario) is situated directly opposite Spooner. Lumbering is carried on very extensively at these three places ; and agriculture and fishing at the Lake of the Woods form other industries. Leaving Graceton for my home at Spooner, two days after the first fire, I rejoiced to think I should have a short vacation ere I should resume my usual routine of work in the now desolate localitv. But how easily cher- ■ ■€f0 i ' '^ '^■:^^ '"^-"^^^^^mHI wm ,jP_. ^ Mi^^"^??^:0^^^^K^j^^^^ ,#^^B^-^. .,* • '"^^^ ' 'i^m Business Sections of Beaudette and Spooner, before the Fire, Showing- Bridges and River. ished plans are shattered, and what changes will occur with hardly a moment's notice ! Before the next day had drawn to a close, another catastrophe took place ; the disastrous destruction of Spooner and Beaudette, on the ''not to be forgotten" seventh of October, 1910. The village of Pitt, four miles west of Beaudette, was threatened the same day. At half-past three o'clock Talcs From llic Miiiiicsola I'orrsl I'irrs Taken in the Afternoon. in the afternoon a relief train left Pitt,, l)rino-ing its inhabitants to Beaudette. Some of the men remained to defend the place, Init were forced to yield to the mighty enemy and flee for their own lives. Pitt was entirely destroyed, with the exception of the depot, which, by a miracle, withstood the fray. No one thought l)nt that our two towns were safe, there being good fire protection at 1)()th places. Only time revealed to' us the futility of these defenses. At four o'clock the whole atmosphere was filled with smoke, darkening the sun and causing the sky to take on a dusky reddish hue. Many of the children, when dismissed from school, hastened homewards more ([uickly than usual; and each and all gazed wonderingly on the peculiar trans- formation. Fear crept into tlie hearts of many, but the 22 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires majority took no precautions whatever, for couldn't two such towns defend themselves from an ord'narv forest fire, if one possil^ly should come? Some of the citizens, however, stationed large water-hose at various places in the outskirts of Beaudette, in order to protect the town should the fire advance from Pitt. Hose was also laid along the river bank near Spooner, directly opposite, so that place could be defended in case Beaudette should burn. The fire did not prove to be of such a nature, but mstead, came upon us with a most unusual as well as unexplainable explosion, which, as will be shown, caused the most terrible results inside of a few hours' time, covering a wude stretch of country, includ'ng vicinities even thirty miles distant. About six o'clock, the air was still heavy, but now the horizon was dark — not a sign on it to indicate the threatening calamity. At seven, my brother came home and advised us to go to the depot, as no one knew what might happen ; and a feeling of uneasiness had come over a few. With some misgivings on my part, though just recently I had met with a similar experience, we started for the station across the bridge to Beaudette. My two older brothers remained at our home, to carry furniture and other articles to the vacant back lot, deter- mined to continue w^ith the undertaking until the last moment. The elder one, feeling positive some evil was to befall the town very soon, urged us anxiously to make a hasty departure. Not comprehending the gravity of the situation, we did not take anything but our wraps and a few valuable papers with us, thinking we would l\ilcs I'i'oiii the Minnesota Forest Fires 23 soon he liack, after our cwnini;- walk. Arrix'ini;- at our (k'stinatioii. \\c; had to wait onl)- a few iniiiiites l)cforc a roariiii^' gale was heard outside, (iradually a few more arri\'als joined us, all with a douhtful exi)ression on their countenances. Going' out on tlie platform, wc could see the same lurid color creeping over the horizon as earlier in the afternoon appearing still more intensified in the darkness of nisjlit. Messages were wired across to Can- Canadian NuiLhern Depot at Beaudette. ada with orders to have relief trains ready, if found neces- sary. In and out the depot restless watchers passed, in spite of the strong wind, which threatened to hurl them headlong to the ground ])elow the (lc])()t platform, and which scattered cinders aliout so freel_\- tliat it was a painful task to keep one's eyes o])en. 24 Talcs From flic Minnesota Forest Fires Scarcely half an hour had expired, when the cry was heard from the men perched on the tall building across from the depot "It's coming- all right, heading straight this way. Quick ! Give the fire alarm !" Never w^ill I forget how violently it set our hearts beating, when the shrill whistles loudly sounded their warning call in that dark hour. How the sounds of hasty trampling feet were heard in response, as one by one, in group after group, people assembled on the platform of the Beaudette depot. There were parents carrying or leading their children ; invalids and convalescents, conveyed in blankets through the jostling crowd ; fainting women and aged mothers, leaning for support on some stronger arm. All alike were fleeins^ from the fiery demons that in a few moments International Bridge, Crossing- the Rainy River into Canada. Talcs Fvoui the Minnesota Forest Fires 25 wonkl destroy their homes and clicrishcd treasures. No time to save them now! so onward rushed the throng, little heedins;' if onl)- deliverance would come to them soon. After a few minutes, which seemed like an eternitv, a locomotive was heard thundering over the International bridge, crossing into the ''States." Oh ! what a relief, the awful suspense would soon l)e broken! I hit, alas! what did we see? The coming engine had l)Ut one coach for so many anxious people. Selfishness being the dom- inant spirit in a moment like this, a most dangerous panic ensued. All wished to be with their loved ones in that one precious car. It was filled in a few seconds ; even the steps and vestibule were closely occupied ; and so signalled, "Clear the track !" that it might return to Canada. The crowd left behind was wild with excitement. It was almost heartrending to hear how pitifully some pleaded to have at least their small children taken al)oard, or perhaps an aged mother or hysterical wife. Their pleadings were in vain. "No more room," was the answer. And then and there did many a mortal pause in the ordeal, to wonder if he would dare to face God's judgment throne if now called to answer for past proceedings. Meanwhile the towns were in full blaze ; and not three blocks from where we were gathered were large oil tanks containing thousands of gallons of gasoline. When the train started back, the conductor, standing in the rear end of the car, finally succeeded in making himself heard through the u])roar and din issuing from the panic- stricken mass of Inmianitv. He announced that thev 26 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires would return inside of twenty minutes, with forty box cars to rescue them. Yet who could w'th common sense — which some had lost now — be satisfied to wait twenty minutes more? Who knew what might happen during that time? If the flames reached the gasoline tanks, the terrible explosion would bring certain death to all where they were waiting. The fire, which was rapidly spread- ing, might even seize the depot and houses around it, thus making escape seem well nigh impossible. Never can we forget the scene which followed. Chil- dren crying in fright, while clinging tremblingly to their parents or guardians; mothers calling wildly' for little ones who in the rush had been separated from them ; terror-stricken women sobbing and wringing their hands ; men, who were fools enough to curse \vhile death stared ^iS.'^^^ " '^^■^' LMIi A Residence View of Ilainy River, Ont. 'Jules J'roiii llic Miinicsota /•orrsi h'irrs 27 tlu'in ill the face. All this, wliilc the vc-rv licavciis seemed n')\v ready to (>])en witli a el()iidl)iirsl of fire upon ii> at any nioiiienl. Tlie skies were entirely covered with tlie fiery reddish hue. i^-rowini;- more and more livid as the for- est fires drew nearer. The very atmosphere was filled with h.issin.«;- elements, i^radnally silenced at intervals l)y the increasing- roar of the wind. Even on the Canadian side, the woods w^re hurnino; close to the railroad. Already the fires had hurled flames across the river and were rapidly destroying a large luill plant in Rainy River, Ontario, opposite Spooner. The town of Rainy River was only saved hy a change in the course of the wind, its inhahitants mostlv having fled to the waiting relief-trains. Rainy iN^iver heing a railroad center, these trains were made up in the yard. PUit it seemed to us, as we stood packed together, that it would be a risky afifair to board those freight cars, even if they came in time. Vor what if, when packed with a human cargo, they should catch fire while passing through the blazing stretch of forest! Not wishing to remain in such a perilous situation as that at the depot, we decided to act, and to act quickly. My brother suggested we should go down the steep bank of the river nearby, and find shelter behind the concrete wall of the large iron bridge. This the rest agreed to; so wq set off immediately, fol- lowed by some of our neighbors. By and l)y tlie freight train did come, and in a few moments sped by on its return to Canada ; every car filled to its utmost capacity. It could not proceed further than Rainy River just then; so, as the wind turned favor- al)ly, the passengers all spent the reiuainder of tlie niijht 28 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires there. In the morning the town's inhabitants, who appre- ciated the good fortnne which had spared their own property, did what was in the'r power to help the home- less refugees to food and shelter. When we looked up and saw the freight train above us, w^e actually felt quite satisfied at the water's edge. The smoke did not trouble us there ; and we had a splen- did point from which to watch the real melodrama as it was acted out by the fire fiends. The waters were lashing wildly against the banks. The waves were so high, indeed, that some who ventured out in gasoline launches had to turn back to the shore. But we felt safer there ; the high bank sheltering us from the smoke, even though we had the full benefit of the chilly night winds. Still, little did we care for the present. Did we not have the experience of a lifetime, seeing sights which would not soon be forgotten? Each one there hoped his home was spared ; though inwardly something seemed to whisper it was gone — gone. A switch engine came over from Canada, and stopped above our place of refuge. Its crew came to watch the progress of the fire, and to bring all who were left on the American side to safety, should the flames approach the large oil tanks. Providence did not permit such a disaster to happen, however. Miraculously the fires burned all around, but kept away from the tanks, thus preventing a most terrible explosion. The flames even caught in the coal chutes, not far from the place men- tioned, and for days afterwards that mass of coal glowed with more than a friendly warmth. The heat could be felt even in the cars, as the trains passed by the burning heap. Talcs From I lie Minnesota Forest Fires 29 As inidnii^lu advanced, wc wondered vaj^uely if we really were homeless, and longed for the dawn which would reveal the truth to us. j^^roni where we sat we could wit- ness the efforts made to save the Shevlin-Mathieu Luml)er Company mills, on the ])oint opposite us, in Spooner. The lari^e lumher \ard was all al)laze ; l)ut brave-hearted men, with steady arms, were keepini;- the fires at bay Shevlin-Matliieii IMill Plant, Spooner, Minn. with the powerful hose the plant afforded. It seemed impossible to fight the infuriated flames at first, for the •heat from the burning lath and lumber was awful; but in these few men wdio had undertaken the task there dw^elt a heroic nature. Jts doing meant not alone the saving of property, but, far more, the lives of many helpless women and children, whose resctie depended chiefly on the courage and success with which these men performed their work. Several of them were husbands and fathers, fighting for their loved ones with the most earnest endeav- ors. ]\Iany families had sought refuge in the power- 30 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires house nearby, it being of cement ; several in the office- building, and others were in the Beaudette River below. So well did these men succeed, that ere daybreak every building on the plant was saved ; only the yard was entirely laid waste, with millions of dollars worth of material reduced to ashes. Oh, what a magnificent yet gruesome sight vras that blazing lumber yard ! It resem- bled a turbulent storm-tossed ocean, with its gleaming, gigantic waves rolling round and round, reaching high up towards the evening sky, now void of stars and moon. It seemed at one time to be entirely covered with surg- ing, fiery billows, covering a stretch of half a mile or more. Large dark gusts of steam would ascend where- ever the hose was applied. With the continuous roar and crackle of the flames, it was indeed a memorable scene. Words cannot describe it ; but, once imprinted on memory's page, with those who had the opportunity to view it, it remains a picture painted in unfading colors. It was wonderful to see the intelligence displayed l)y the mill-horses when being removed from the stable to the water's edge. As long as some one was with them, they were quiet ; Init when left alone, immediately they would break loose from their halters and try to escape or to follow. They were securely tied several times, but to no avail. At last a man took charge of them ; and how confident and trustful the poor beasts became, though the heat was so intense that the people crouching in the river claimed it made the water lukewarm where they were staying. As two entire towns, within one ])lock from the iron bridge, were wiped out of existence l)efore morning. Talcs from the Minnesota I'ovcst lures 31 iiiinKToiis olluT firc'-\'ic\vs ])assc(l l)rf(ir(.' (Hir xisioii. ,\<»w and iIkmi wo would walk ai'onnd, walcliiiiL;' IIr- niiu-h-il- luniinatcd sights from a dislaiicc. When the hardware stores wei'e l)einL;' destrcjNed, it reminded ns ot a far-off hattlefield ; for the stores of eartridi^es and other forms of amnumition jxionied ofl like so man\ distant eannon i^oinj;' oil in rapid snceession. Abcmt one o'cloek that nis^lit, two of onr ])arty set out to learn whether or not our homes were burnt. They soon eame haek with the re])ort that not a huildinj^- could be seen in Spooner. Only i^lowing embers, tlaring here and there in the darkness. So, when morning dawned, we knew and felt, in the full sense of the word, that we were homeless. How strange it appeared, as we walked through the small remaining portion of Beaudette, sur- rounding the depot, that no cozy home had its doors open to receive us as usual; and, stranger still, that our towns, which had been so flourishing only a few liours before, were now so entirely wiped oiT the earth's surface. So quickly can van.ish the earthly possessions we often prize so highly ! What a picture niet our e\es, l)efore we had walked much farther than a couple of l)locks from the station ! The lower bridge across the Beaudette River was gone ; only the charred poles remained stretching across to the opposite shore. Beaudette was — as we afterwards found Spooner to be — a desolated i)lain, with ruins of every description. Taking a fleeting glance at it as we went l)y, we hurried forth, and, seeing the other bridge to our home town, crossing the same river a little farther down, w^as left, we hastily turned otu- footsteps thitlier. We 7\ilcs i'voiii the Minnesota J'orc'sl I' ires 33 found even the sidewalks "one, and wvw nl)liocd t(j walk ankle deep in ashes, aecuninlaled e\er\ where. Xot a l)nildin,L;- (hd we see, witli the exeeplion of the mill j)lant. The eliarred remains of Inmljer were still hnrnin.i;- on the \ast stretch which was formerl\- the mill-xard. The iron rails of the side tracks here were melted and twisted out of shape. Tlie trnck cars were recoi;nized only hy the now shapeless wheels l\ini;- wliere they once had stood. Leaving;- this first scene, we {Kissed onward to fully view the (T\struction. and convince ourseh'es that the incident was altoi^ether too true to l^e doul)ted. h^)r a moment it was rather hewilderinj;". Xo walks, no fences; even the electric light and tele])hone lines were down. Crossings were destroyed; so it was necessary to go around the hollows that were left in order to reach the other side of the street. The streets had the at)])earance Ruins in Beaudette, Oct. 1910, Showing- Former Sites of Many Destroyed Homes. 34 Talcs From the Uliiuicsota Forest Fir es of being plowed at various places ; the clay or soil having also been affected by the fire. Thus we trudged steadily onward, in a dazed frame of mind, doing our best to realize that the scene before us was not merely a nightmare or a distressing dream, rather than the ruin-covered site of our once prosperous little town. By counting the squares, we were able to determine where to go, and naturally each party sought for the Paiins of a Spooner Residence. ruins of his own dwelling first. What a pathetic sight it was to see the homeless inhabitants return to view the sooty townsite. They seemed to approach from various directions, in group after group, seeking the place they had fled from the evening before. Cherished aims and anticipations for the future had come to naught in the catastrophe. Everywhere were former residents, digging Talcs I'l'oni the Minnesota Forest Fires 35 Uuins of a iU'siden* c ai Beaudeile. in the ashes of their ruined homes for spoiled treasures, to preserve as souvenirs. To many, these small tokens were yet held dear, recalling, as they did, many house- hold memories. Spooner Public School. 36 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires In the distance we could see the half-destroyed school building looming up against the smoky atmosphere, reminding one of the ancient ruins of a castle whose days of usefulness were over. What a marvel to note that for a three blocks distance, the electric-light system leading from the school to the corner of ]\Iain Street, for nearly four blocks, remained untouched. The globes of the very same street-lights are still in use at the time of this writ- Ruins of Hospital at Spooner. ing. The places of the sidewalks close beside, could only be distinguished by the ashes and rusty nails lying among the charred ruins. Walking over the blackened townsite, we would occasionally see dead dogs and cats, who had found escape impossible. In a few instances we were obliged to stop and put an end to the miserable existence of some poor little fire-blind kitten, who sat mewing piteously as we drew near. A great many horses and cows, which had been left in their staljles, perished in the flames, in whose Talcs Troiii flic M iiiiicsofa forest Fires 37 presence tlicN liccanie liclplrss. Tlic fonl <)(li)r of l)urnt llcsh, niiii,i;k'(l witli thai of Miioke, made conditions more nncomf()rtal)lc for ns as \\c passed aloni;'. Some wlio owned stock lia(k in spite of their own snd(k'n (k'partnre, set the l)rntes at hlierty, and tlie animals had snrvived l)y lieeini;-. Ijefore the tire reached them, to the more open snimrbs. east of the town of Spooncr, near the Rainy Temporary Post Office at Spooner. River. A few had received l)urns ; Imt. for all that, they were ready to recognize their masters, who came in search of them the next day. Yes, the entire country was a scene of utter desola- tion. The most striking feature, with those near by, was the fact that our Octo1)er-tinted forests, which just before had been luxuriantly gar1)ed in gay autumn colors, 38 Talcs From flic Minnesota Forest Fires Ruins of the Lenox Hotel at Spooner. were now jet l)lack and bare. Surrounding the two towns at some distance as they did, the true situation caused one's heart to sink all the more at the sad sight. During the night, one wee girl in our party had wept bitterly at the thought of losing her most beloved ''dolly" which her mother had wrapped up with other articles. Finding the street blocked by fire, they had been obliged to beat a rapid retreat in another direct'on. The mother becoming faint when seeing the ghastly fire-scenes and the panic of the people, it was necessary for the husband to support her. Having to do this and carry the two- year-old boy, the parcel was left to its fate in the street. Great was the delight of the small tot, when, in the morning, her treasure was restored and safely clasped in her arms. The large package had been found Talcs From the Minnesota Forest lures 39 unharmed where it had 1)ccn (h-oppcd, Ihoii^ii llic llaiiics had swept entirely aronnd and c:lose np to it. A small hoy, living- in llic same neighhorhood as little Bertha, was not qnitc so fortunate. That week he had received a new^ gun. This and his pet dog were the dear- est joys of his hoyish heart. ( )n this particular Friday eve- ning he sat toying wdth the gun, w^hile the dog lay asleep by his side. Leaving them for awhile, he did not get an opportunity to admire either again, for he, too, had soon hut one thought, to flee for his own life. In the morning, when he returned, he found his treasures lying side hv side in the ruins of his home. Other little chil- dren had some similar experiences, but their sorrows soon passed over, in the excitement which followed. Otherwise, no tears were seen. All were in the same condition — "in the same boat," quoting from the popular saying about them. The calamity was borne with admi- rable courage and fortitude, l^y women as well as men. Every human being, w^ho w^as now in such a destitute plight, had the greatest cause to rejoice, in spite of material losses. Though the fires had come leaping over the tree-tops and — as several had the opportunity to wit- ness — it seemed out of the very sky, showering clouds of red flames far and near, all escaped with their lives, save an aged woman in Spooner. In Beaudette no lives were lost. Had the disaster burst upon us a few hours later, the most horrible result might have occurred. As it w^as, we could not help l)ut ol)serve our great salvation, the knowdedge of whicli made it easier to bear our unexpected trouble. Returning to the depot, we found many homeless 40 Talcs From flic j\Iiiiiicsota Forest Fires refugees, who had fled from their "homesteads," assem- bled there. Most of them were strangers at this place, perhaps with no money for food ; and, in the major- ity of cases, with only the scanty clothing they wore. As they were huddled together on the seats, the floor, and the platform, it made one's heart ache to see their pitiful,- sad condition. On many a countenance a look of despair outlined their careworn features ; but as with their neighboring fellow-men in the towns, a spirit of fortitude prevailed even among them. Early the first morning after the fire, a young couple reached Beaudette, who had been residing on their claim only five miles from town. The woman was almost frantic with excitement as she related how they with their one cow, had been standing on a sandy spot all night while the fires raged around them. She was leading the cow when they arrived, for her husband came stumbling on behind, not being able to see anything, as his eyes had been so injured by cinders and heavy smo'ke that the eye- lids were glued together. His condition was so serious for a few days that it was thought he would be blind for Hfe. Oh, how much pain and agony did many undergo that first week ! Several suffered from physical torture ; others from the extreme worry many were forced to endure when absent from their dear ones during the disaster. It hap- pened that, shortly before the calamity, a few of the cit- izens of Beaudette and Spooner set out on their annual trip of duck-hunting at the Lake of the Woods. Their families were therefore without their assistance when this fearful fire occurred. While at a remote point on 7"(//(\N' I'roiii I lie Minnesota /-'orcsl hires 41 the lake, a siuUlen s(|iiall came up, so lliey were unable io cross the water in tlie launcli. At a small i)i)st()ffice near at hand, rumors came to tlicm that the two towns had been laid waste wdth oreat loss of life. < )h.- what a terrible n^oment for those fathers and husl)ands! 1 *er- ha])s, tlieir own folks were dead or sulTerin.L;-, and here were the\ , prevented from s^oing- to them by the. mighty storm, which threatened to sink the boat whenever they ventured out. Strong men wept at the thought. After some time the wind subsided; and, as fast as the engine could propel it, the launch hastened onward, to lessen the suspense of these anxious citizens. Xot until they arrived at the dock in "Old r.eaudette" (the portion first settled by white people) were their minds set at rest. It was noticed that, when the launch came in, there was no tooting of horns or hilarity exhibited, as on former occasions. Instead, anxious faces asked the questions which were now the chief thoughts of each one concerned. In several instances, families had become separated, and were not united until one or two days after the disaster. So it happened when an aged grandmother was alone at her daughter's home, with two little chil- dren, aged six and three years, the same week the parents had gone to a claim up the river, which they wished to examine, never once even dreaming of such a change on their return, ddie night of the fire, after i)Utting the little ones to bed, the grandmother went next door to ask if she could bring the children over, as the terrible gale outside frightened her. I'.arely had they returned when the crv "The fire is coming" was heard on the 42 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires street. Running- home to secure valuables, she was back in a few seconds, only to find that her neighbors as well as grandchildren had disappeared. Thinking thev were safe with some one else, and knowing she could not find them in the rush, the brave old lady hurried ofif towards the mill. There she joined a few others who were head- ing for the river. In the morning we met her, calm and hopeful. She was in search of the children, but as we could tell her nothing concerning either, she hastened on her way, determined to find them, being positive they were yet alive. Joining her in the attempt, our inquiries brought the information that two little tots, robed only in night clothes, had been seen by various persons the evening before. The tiny girl had run, barefooted and thinly clad, with the vast crowd ; while a man had carried the boy. They had been taken to Rainy River on the freight train, like the rest. Being with strangers, no one knew much about them, except what the elder child could tell, and she was much too frightened to do anything but grieve and sob, when no trace of her beloved guardian could be found. Kind-hearted women took charge of the young refugees and dressed them warmly, while trying to console them ; but nothing could comfort Elsie, who had never been absent from home alone in all her short life. As the children had become separated on the street, her sorrow was increased when both Grandma and ''baby ])rother" were missing. In the morning she was brought to Beaudette, but saw no familiar face among those assembled there. Then slie disappeared again, so we could not trace her. Several claimed Elsie Talcs From fJic Minnesota Forest Fires 43 had l)een at tlic depot sliortly before, and in(|uiries had been made concerning her folks. We continned our rather fruitless search. Finall\- a £;entleman told of a little i^irl wlio had just arrived on an in])oun(l train from Rainy River that morning. She claimed her home had been at Spooner. To our relief, she was discovered at the station, but crying as if her tender heart would break. Drawling her to me, it was hard to make her realize, for a moment, that at last she had an old friend to cheer her (Elsie having been a neighbor of mine). Hand in hand we went out to find "Grandma," Elsie's baby face all smiles now, in spite of the recent shower of tears. But no sign of her grandmother could be found ; and, knowing we w^ould encounter some of her relatives dur- ing the day, we crossed over to Spooner, hoping to find rert and shelter in one of the mill buildings, none other being available. The same day the wee maiden was restored to her joyful grandmother, together with her little brother. The mother soon joined them there. She had spent the terrible night with a friend whom she had been visiting that day, in a boat on the river, not daring, during that time, to go ashore, as the country there, too, was on fire. To their deep sorrow, the father was reported as miss- ing, even on the third day; but great was their happiness when he, wnth other cruisers, came tramping into the camps, worn out with exhaustion, but well and by all means — alive. Homeless refugees had been invited to partake of the kind hospitality offered liy the Shevlin-lMathieu Lumber Co. All were welcome to dine freely at their 44 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires A Refuge for the Fire Sufferers. boarding-camps, where meals were served regularly, without recompense or regard to individuals. In one of the large buildings here, another pathetic sight greeted us. Several former citizens and their families were grouped together on the "bunks" and mattresses, or standing disconsolately about. More came occasionally, until finally the place was actually crowded. j\lany were fortunate enough to have friends in Rainy River, whose homes were opened to receive them. The "Cathcart" hotel being the only one left, near the depot in Beaudette, was full to overflowing with "fire" suft'erers. These afflicted people were too grateful to complain much of rude quarters, but seemed to make the best of their unusual surroundings, As soon as certain railroad companies offered free transportation to all of those who wished to go to relatives and friends at other points, the number Talcs Prom the Minnesota Forest Fires 45 was lessened: but. for all that, for a eonsiderable lenj^th of time no one had nuieh room to boast of. How we missed the comfort and freedom of a home! The doctors who had resided at Si)ooner were kept busv treatino- smoke-1)lin(le(l e}'es ; as patients havini^ this ailment were constantly beini;- broui^ht into the camps; this place Ijeini^- used as a temporary hospital for such cases. ( )thers were ill from excitement, but as yet little grief was displayed amono- them. Xo one seemed al)le to fullv comprehend the true situation. What one sought for now was food to appease hunger and rest if possible ; for sleep had been denied us that night. Xo doubt we all felt like one of the small l)oys who declared he was sure he would have ample time in the future to worry about the loss of his home and belong- ings, and now meant to have a rest from such trying affairs. This he did in true boy fashion, going on with his plav as if he knew^ no cares in the whole wade w^orld. It might be interesting to know that the sport indulged in at such a critical time consisted in hanging head down- wards from a beam in the Company's ice house. Peals of laughter revealed wdiat undaunted fun these lively young- sters found in doing this, causing them to almost forget the misfortune whose terrible results w^ere not yet fully known. It proved anuising to watch the throng file in as the noisv bell announced the meal-time in the dining camp. Eight or ten long tables were generally set, two or three times at each repast, before the Shevlin-^Mathieu Lum- ber Company's large family ( as they jestingly preferred to call themselves) had had their hunger appeased. And 46 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires what ravenous appetites the smoky cHmate seemed to give us ! The ham, biscuits and baked beans served so reeularlv— ves, three times a dav when we were allowed three rations — vanished with surprising rapidity as each tried to do justice to the daily menu. No time or occa- sion now to be exact, or even dream of fine table-linen, cut glass and silver. No, indeed, each and all had just one aim in mind — to be contented in having something to eat, hurrv through, and make room for some one else. Between the meals, time hung heavy on our hands. Many hardly dared to plan for the future, but tried to remain ind'fferent for the present at least. Every place on the mill plant, found convenient, was soon occupied. The office building and others also had their due share of tenants. A flatboat or tug, launched close to the dock, was transformed into a more exclusive dining- cafe. So as long as food could be obtained, there was no actual need of starvation. Yet, oftentimes, some hungry lad (not to speak of older persons) did long to once more raid "Mother's pantry." Thus the earlier davs li cliff AV Flat- were spent, during which Boat. the men were constantly on the watch, for smoldering fires still threatened the dry cedar-yard at Beaudette, some distance from the depot Talcs from flic Minnesota Forest I' ires 47 there. Tn this case it would have hccn daiii^crous for us all, as \vc were only across the bay from the yard. Hose was kci)t ready ; and the small boys thought it a o-reat responsibility, as well as amusement, when they were given the task of sprinkling and dampening the grounds, so that no sparks could cause further damage, should they tiy across. Ijut luckily the cedar-yard did not burn, though the Engler Lumber Co. mill, situated a Main Street of Beaudette Two Weeks after Fire. short distance from it, had a very close call. Their horses were hurriedly brought over to Spooner, and all preparations were made to meet the fires raging in the woods nearby. Constant anxiety prevailed for awhile, for everything was now as dry as cinders. Having seen what terrible destruction the fires could accomplish, one did not know what more to expect for some time. Wonderful to say, the very day after the horrible conflagration, a refresh- ine shower fell ; which, had it come before, might have 48 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires Ruins of the Lower Bridge and Boat-Docks after Fire. prevented the disaster by extinguishing the sparks that smouldered, under the blackened turf in recently burned- over places. Without much notice, these had been fanned into a mass of wide-spreading flames, supplemented, per- haps, by fires originating elsewhere. Alanv were the variegated stories told by the refu- gees. One family narrated their experience as follows : Noticing the threatening danger in the air that after- noon, they had hitched up the team and started olf' at full speed as they lived over two miles from Beaudette. In spite of the hurried departure, it was amusing to note how their little Clara had managed to bring her beloved cat and kittens with her, not daring to risk their safety by leaving them with her other childish belongings. The father had remained, in hopes of bringing the cattle to Talcs Prom tJic Minnesota [u)i'cst Fires 49 town with liini. In llu' morning-, l)cf()rc wc liad seen his folks, \vc saw him looking" anxiously around while com- ing towards the remaininia;' portion of Beaudette. When we incjuired for his famil)-, he liad no idea where thev were, or whetlier the\- liad safely escaped. What a relief when he found them all, unharmed, at the "camps." Later he related how he had spent the nioht in a river two miles up, together with a family by the name of Hai^en. They had also headed for town, but, being- delayed in finding the horses that had wandered off, had made ner had the militia alighted from their "special" train, than they set out to perform the various tasks Militia Retiring after Council; Scene of Encampment on Beaudette School Grounds. assigned to tliem. One was to put up tents for tliem- selves, as well as for others who as yet had only the l)lue heavens for a cover over their heads. The school grounds at Beaudette, no doubt, reminded old veterans of the "Old Camp Grounds," when the numerous and various- sized tents were pitched upon it. Of the school here, only the two tall chimneys were standing to remind the youngsters of busier days. Here, too, a free restaurant 64 Talcs From flic Minnesota Forest Fires The Cathcart School at Beaudette Before the Fire. Ruins of the Beaudette School-Building; First Relief Tent Pitched; Smoke Arising in Distance, from tlie Burn- ing Coal Cliutes near Depot. Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires 65 Mess Tent Where Militia Dined. Fire Refugees at Beaudette. 66 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires was established, and many were the hungry beings who constantly sought this "out-door dining cafe." The Red Cross Society was also promptly at hand, with hospital tents, doctors and trained nurses, ready for action. Sorrowful to know, in spite of miraculous escapes, there was great need of their assistance. Not alone did the typhoid fever patients and other conva- lescents require care, but there were those who had been Red Cross Hospital Camp. robust and well only a fortnight since, and who now were writhing in greatest agony and pain as a result of being injured in the catastrophe. Many had to part with loved ones who- were ill before it happened. Though conscious that they had but gone to a safer harbor, their bereaved relatives felt that they could afford to lose homes, money, stocks and bonds ; but when it came to answering Death's quiet call, it was hard to be fully resigned in letting the dear ones go. I'alcs From tJic M iiiiicsoUi I'orcst I'ircs 67 Red Cross Hospital with Attendants, During- Fire Period. ; /"^^^^B.-^ /^•^i. "iiE llT^ ■^^s^ ^^0*1 '^jH ■ S. M. I.br. Co.'s Office Building, as Temporary Bank of Spooner, Oct. 1910. 68 Talcs From flic Miiiiicsofa Forest Fires The towns were elosely guarded 1)y the miHtia. Shortly after the event, several suspicious looking char- acters had flocked hither, with evil intentions. Two such were overheard in earnest conversation, planning a night raid on the sleeping-quarters in the "Camp" at Spooner, among the unsuspecting sleepers. The place was therefore guarded all night hy two armed men, who took turns in being awake, olxserving as much secrecy as pos- s i b 1 e . So the wicked devices were averted ; and, as soon as reported to the sheriff, soldiers were sta- tioned to guard the differ- ent parts of the devastated towns. The bank vaults were closely watched, day and night, by these sentin- els, until the valuables could be removed to a safer place of deposit where plunderers could not so easily make an entrance. One of the foremost duties of the soldiers was to secure able-bodied men and teams and turn their course out to the country settlements, and there rescue the victims who had fallen by the wayside, and bring the dead to their final resting place. It was a duty so sad as to touch the most hardened heart, causing even the bravest to shudder. Only three miles up, in the Hagen district, on a soot- consisting of nine Vault of the Beaudette Bank Oct. 12. 1910. covered field, lav an entire family, 7\//(\s- I'rom the Miiiiicsofa I'orcst Fires ftf) belief Hustlers for Fire Sufferers. Oct., 1910. mcnil^ers. These were the Brotten's. They had tried to save themselves l^y getting into a valley, but even there it was useless.' In the terrible smoke and excitement they had dropped during their frantic flight, and met with the awful tragedy of being suffocated on the spot. The sol- diers found them lying scattered about on the field close by — the mother with the youngest children around her. A neighbor, living on this place, Inu-.'ed himself partly in the muddy creek-bottom at the meadow's edge, and so escaped with severe burns on his face and hands. The Brotten home, situated perhaps a mile away, stood unharmed that night; Init who would know just where was safest when flames were descending with such velocity towards their shelter? Two days later, the house was also destroyed, ])y new fires fanned up from the preceding one. This family had resided in the com- munity but a short time. 70 Talcs From flic Minnesota Forest Fires Farther up, as they traveled on, these soldiers would come across some other corpse, lying near the roadside. Their path was made more difficult by the fallen burnt timber. In most of the instances the victims proved to be homestead-seekers who had arrived shortly before, perhaps with bright plans for the future. With knap- sacks strapped to their shoulders, some had started briskly out, expecting to reach town in safety, but this time they did not reach the destination anticipated. Among the tall pines and thick tamaracks did they suddenly find their life's journey ended in a most unlooked-for manner. Only two of these were yet alive, when found in a mus- keg swamp, though so badly burned that the elder died a few days afterwards. These were a father and son, who had come from Iowa to locate claims in a newly- opened section. On my return from Graceton I had seen them on the train when coming to Beaudette ; the next time I saw them was in the hospital-tent, hovering between life and death. A survivor of their party, Mr. Jorgeson, told — when he came in, bearing the tidings of his poor companions and their whereabouts — of his own marvelous escape. Seeing the dreaded fury advancing at "break neck" speed, they had left the road and fled into the forest to find a small brooklet having its course there. The younger man and himself had barely jumped in and covered them- selves with earth from the bottom, when the sizzling flames shot over them. No response was given to their call, for the other two had come too late. When the fire had gone by, the men in the creek were both more or less injured, having received painful burns. The Talcs from the Minnesota Forest J' ires 71 younger one was l)nrned so severely that the soldiers were oblii^ed to l)ring him in on a "stretcher." His father had suffered fatal injury. 'Hie surviN'or's hrotlier was dead only a few feet from the l)ank of the stream. In telling' of his sad experience, the young man remarked : ''When accjuaintances in(|uired alxnU my brother, seeing me there alone, it was the hardest task I liad e\'er under- taken to answer 'Will is dead.' " Other cruisers saved themselves l)y rowing in llie middle of some larger stream. Some, who were over thirty miles in the wilderness at the time of the fire, told how the wild animals of the forest — moose, deer, bear and others — swam constantly about in the water near them ; the terror of the moment causing them to forget both timidity and ferocity. Fourteen miles from town, another tragedy occurred, which, when known, brought tears to the eyes of many. Another family, w^ell known in Beaudette and Spooner, had been sacrificed to the fire-fiend. Edward Rulien, his wife and seven children, all perished as the fires over- whelmed them at their home. Air. Nordstrom, who owned some land near liy, had just come to the Rulien home that afternoon. The air was then smoky, but such was a frequent case during the dry summer. The day was spent as usual, with no foreboding of what was to happen ere it had drawn to a close. Having become wearv after his long trip from Ijeaudette, their visitor had just lain down for a nap, when he was aroused very suddenly. Mrs. Rulien called to him, asking that he get up and help them make preparations, as the forest fires were comiu"-. Already the\' reflected their vivid hues 72 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires on the dusky horizon. No sooner said than done, it was a moment's work to l)ring- the horses from the stable and hitch them to the wagon. Their intention was to bring the family to safety; Init, jnst when they were helping the children into the vehicle, the air became so thick and full of sparks that they saw their efforts would be use- less. It was now too late to get by the woody stretch to the open meadows beyor.d. While the men were hitching up the team, Mr. Xordstrom tells how impres- sive it was to observe how quiet the little girls were during the exciting ordeal. There were six little girls, with the baby. Not a single frightened shriek did he hear. Instead, he heard both Hildegarde and Evelyn say repeatedly, 'Tf we must go, we'll go to God." So confiding was their childlike faith, that even in the shadow of Death this sweet assurance was dear to them. With these accents on their lips, which were no doubt the last, they were ushered into the Paradise of Rest, sometime to see the Good Shepherd, whom by Christian parents they had been taught, on earth, to revere and trust. Seeing they were surrounded, Mr. Rulien took some of the little ones to the root-cellar, while Mr. Nordstrom tried to release the horses. It was then so sweltering hot, that, though one of the little girls had thrown a wet towel over his head, he could not finish, the task. Call- ing them to follow him to the distant brook, he dashed through the blazing brush, to reach it if possible. Near the buildings were several tons of hay, and large burn- ing bales fell on him as he plunged by. Hastily he crept from under them, Ijut his feet were so terril)lv scorched Talcs From the Minnesota forest Fires /T, that he suffered intensely all night in his cramped posi- tion. Not a sound did he hear, only that made by the fires, lie feared lie would l)cconie insane before dawn, not daring to even hope his neighbors had survived after such a furious sea of flames had so entirely enveloped the place; In the grey daylireak he dragged himself up towards the now invisil)le buildings ; and one fleeting glance was sufficient to convince him of what had ])cen wrought by the cruel en.emy. Xo living thing could l)e detected near them. Then it was all he could do to stumble over the fallen-timl)er-covered road to town, his walk made almost unbearable by the pain of his blistered feet. In this way he brought the sad news. The militia set out as soon as it was known, to fulfill a last duty to the fire's victims. That same evening, only a little over a mile from the Rulien home, a former neighbor was alone' on his claim. He had just come from town to look over his land, having heard that small fires had been seen smol- dering thereon. \Miile he was sitting at his solitary evening meal, a deafening roar fell upon his ears. Run- ning out, he saw flames advancing from two directions, leaping over the tree-tops. Thinking thev would not cross the meadows to the other side of the little rivulet, he loaded his arms wdth various articles and carried them to some vacant l)arn Iniildings situated there. On one of his return trips he was terror-stricken to observe how the fires had now spread and were all around him. The red sparks appeared more terrifying against the dusky smoke- filled horizon as the strong gale hastened the danger 74 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires onward. The hideous flames came rolling over the grassy ridges towards him, burning quickly over the grassy stubble. Thinking his last hour had come, he fell on his knees and asked the Lord to make him resigned to his will, if this was the way he should die. Instantly something seemed to urge him forward ; and, running a few steps, he fell into the dry creek, where he lay close to the ground until the danger had passed over. In the morning the entire spot around where he had stood when the fire was sweeping towards him was burnt to the turf and only the roots of the large willow bushes were remaining. Presently, he hurried towards the dwelling, for he saw the light of the lamp glimmering through the dark- ness. Arriving there he found only the ladder on fire, and snatched it away. The house was otherwise untouched. Everything else around the place was destroyed. Alost of the timber lay flat on the ground, having been torn up by the roots. Large areas were covered by such trees, so thickly that it was difficult for even the hardiest kind of a cruiser to pass through. Coming back to Spooner, his family was overjoyed to find him alive, this being another one of the happy reun- ions which occurred during these days. At the time when the soldiers were up the Beaudette River on their sad mission, another family of five were brought in from near Pitt — the Coffin's. They had aimed to reach town, finding it was very unsafe on their wooded farm. The mother carried the youngest child, and Mr. Coffin led the two little boys. Onward they hurried ; but, alas, the next morning the father was found in a l\ilcs I'roiii I he Miniicsola I'orcst I'ircs 75 ditch, willi an arm cnfoldiiii^- cacli little son. ( )n tlic track near 1)\' la\- the mother with the ])ah\- clasped to her bosom, all in the slnmher of death. ( )ne of their neii;h- bors, a Mrs. Coleman, sought refuge in the well, her husband being in ])Caudette. Feeling nuich worried in regard to her safety, he had started off on a hand-car to look for her. Finding his wife, he returned to the rail- road with her, though the heat was so terrific then that it was feared the iron rails would twist out of shape, but in spite of this they w^ould not surrender. Mr. Coleman and the men with him propelled the car steadily forward, reaching the depot much exhausted after their heroic efforts. While battling for life in that perilous plight, ^Irs. Coleman states they wdiizzed close l\v her friend lying near the track, but so suddenly that they could not recognize who it was, except that it was some dead human being. She told how she had called at the Coffin's the same day, and how they then had planned to escape, should ever the fires ravage their surroundings. In leaving, the dear little baby girl had waved her last fare- well to her, smiling and laughing in innocent glee, all being unconscious that this was their last encounter on earth. In the Silver Creek district, other lives w^ere lost. The rescuers came upon the victims lying dead where the flames had overcome them. Oh, what sad scenes were witnessed by these men ! There was more than one mother's boy lying there, among the destroyed trees and log cabins, wdio would never again gladden her heart with a letter or a visit. All, except one, were in y^ Talcs From the Miuucsofa Forest Fires Burial Scene of Silver Creek Fire Victims. Memorial Services observed by Silver Creek Congreg-ation, In Memory of the Fire Victims. Talcs Troiii (he Minnesota J'urcst Tires 77 such condition that no casket could l)c used. Jiut still the solemn funeral rites were performed, and there, m the stillness of the blackened forest, in llie little rural cemetery which narrowly escaped destruction, were these young men laid to rest. On the twelfth of Octolier, the unusual funeral serv- ices were held at the P>eaudette Cemetery. A long trench had been dug by the volunteer assistants, which Trench Grave of 27 Victims after Fire. was to serve as a grave for the departed. Near by were the rude boxes which answered as caskets. The scene which followed after low^ering the victims to their final resting place will be a lasting memory to those who were present. The smoke-dimmed atmosphere and deso- lated surroundings added vividness to the touching sight. While the Rev. AMiite, of Bemidji, conducted the ceremony, the men around the trench stood with bared heads. All felt the solemnity of the hour, and were con- 78 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires Funeral Services Conducted by Rev. S. E. P. White, at th« Trench of the Fire Victims, Oct. 12. scions of a higher power. Seeing the uncertainty of life caused them to pause and realize how it is not merely a fleeting dream. Not alone can the earthly possessions vanish ; even so must all himianity leave some time for the realms of the Great Beyond. But what comfort the poet's sincere words can bring as he quotes : "Life is real, life is earnest And the grave is not its goal. Dust thou art, to dust returnest, Was not spoken of the soul." These beautiful lines can bring a ra; consolation to the bereaved relatives and were left to mourn their loss. of hope and friends who Talcs Troiii the Minnesota Tovcst Tires 79 DiirinL;' llic days which followed, cars arrived fi-oni Beniidji, Winnipeg", Crookston, Dnlnlli and oIIrt cities, at the fire ravaged places along the C. X. !\. K. These contained such necessary articles as food, clothing, C(Xjk- ing-ntcnsils, stoves and lieds. Before long there was a general "cami)ing out" at these towns and the near-lying districts, though the late Tent Town at Spooner. season hlighted the enjoyment of such an occasion. In Spooner and Beaudette, tents were clustered in groups on the river l)ank and on the school ground. The novelty did not last long, for soon Jack Frost was a frequent guest among them. Often his chilling presence was felt, especially so when an early fall of snow caused icy drifts to gather around the flapping canvas shelters, and the bleak north winds howled dismally outside, sending their piercing blasts in through every crack and crevice. Then, in spite of the small air-tight heaters and (if one were fortunate to possess them ) the .heavy army ])lankets. the 8o Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires cold air would cause one to shiver and think of the past. The more comfortable dwellings were hailed with glad- ness when winter came in full earnest, with its blizzards and ''thirty below zero" weather. Of course, these new shelters were to many a great contrast from their former devastated homes; but, in a time like this, necessities were to be appreciated, if luxuries could not be secured. Often did touching incidents occur at the large tents, which served as store-rooms during the week after the disaster. Willing hands were kept busy giving out cloth- ing and food to the needy. Many came timidly forward, hardlv daring to present their requests ; but a look at their thinly-clad relatives and families gave them new courage to proceed. On such an occasion, when home, wearing apparel and all were reduced to ashes, modest pride had to yield, and the generosity of sympathizers was accepted gratefully. One instance, among several, touched the hearts of those in charge. A large family, consisting of parents, nine children and a grandmother, drew near the tent where half-worn clothing was stored. The father pre- sented an order for a few articles in that line, for his brood. Judging from appearances, they were all sadly in need of them. This family had recently come from their home near Silver Creek, perhaps seven miles from Spooner. During the night of the fire, while the rest were deep in slumber, some one had fortunately spied the oncoming flames sweeping rapidly towards their home. Rousing the sleepers, all had hastily fled to the Rainy River and out on the boom, so none had time to dress properly. They had sufifered from the chilly night Talcs I'l'oiii the Minnesota I'orcst Tires 8i winds, shivering out on their narrow support. Some neighbors tried to share a few (hlapidated garments with them in the morning, l)nt these liappened to l)e in a needy eondition themselves. It was therefore a pitiful attempt, for the large group were a sad sight tn behold when arriving at tlieir destination. Xo wonder lielp was gi\en them so willini>]\-, witliout a moment's hesitation! p.. . t». iVUSt Co '»V" or St*\jac-rT«^ oc>, itJ^ The Future Co. "A" of Beaudette, Oct., litlO Yes, varied were the seenes on those "tenting grounds." Not alone did we see human 1)eings wander ainilessly about, wath no definite plan in mind, but the lower ani- mals were also frequent visitors among the living mul- titude. Near the soldiers' barraeks, one day, was dis- covered a poor little cat, whose front paws had been so badlv l)urned that it could not place them on the 82 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires Scene on Beaudette School Grounds. ground. It sat mewing mournfully, every fiber in its feline body quivering witb pain. A young girl, who spied it there, obtained a can of milk from the dining- tent close by. This was used to satisfy the small crea- ture's hunger. While it was eating, it still sat on its haunches, but now purred contentedly, while eagerly lap- ping its delayed repast. A member of the militia was afterwards seen to bandage up "Pussy's" wounded paws, and was heard to declare that the kitten was going home with him as a souvenir of his memorable trip. Further away, just outside the fence, stood a rugged little donkey seemingly deep in his own thoughts, little heeding the confusion around him. With his master, an aged homesteader, he had been in a field during the fires, and was thus enabled to take in the strange situa- 7'(//(\v I'roiii I lie Minnesota forest Fires 83 u o e -r T E . -iii-.j ^«^^^ \ M. N. G. Barracks. Nov. 4. 1910. tions. He stood there despondently for hours, yet no one paid any attention to him. Finally some little girls were seen approaching, lugging a hatte "ed hucket of water from the well in the school yard, when they ofifered this to him, while hestowing a few friendlx- caresses, it was noticed that, in his dumh manner, even he showed signs of appreciation. Those davs were full of changes and trials for many of the people. The uncomfortable abodes and unsani- tary condition caused much sickness among them. While going through the crowded lodging-places. i)itiful sights 84 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires would often appear before our gaze. Sometimes entire families of little children lay moaning- in pain from a burning fever. In rare cases only could proper care and comforts be given. Later the Red Cross provided better accommodations. Oftentimes the older folks would break down, when physical power could no longer resist, and weary brains, reflecting on losses sustained in the catas- trophe, could no longer withstand the strain of a weak- ened vitality. In most instances, not even a quiet nook could be provided for them, and the noise and confusion reigning in the "camps" at intervals made their plight almost unbearable. The mingled human voices, shrieks of children, Imrking of dogs, and other din, often dis- turbed their much-needed rest. Though all had much to be thankful for, the dark sides were also numerous — too numerous to mention in this narration. Shortly afterwards, large buildings were erected 1\v M. N. G. Barracks. Talcs From tJic Minnesota Forest Fires 85 the relief committee, which served as store-houses until sprini;-. l'\)r awhile, two of these were used as dwelling's for those who as yet liad found nn warmer shelter than the tents. All winter the work of supplying the desti- tute was continued. God alone knows what credit each one deserves for his or her conduct, in putting forth the hest endeavor in ])er forming this responsible duty. It can safely l)e stated that, in spite of untoward cir- cumstances, a good many incidents were w^itnessed by those employed, which revealed a sensitive nature hidden in more than one bosom. This was often the case when needy people, called for relief, which they inwardly shrank from seeking. An amusing instance will illustrate one of the many applying to the same subject. A little boy came to the headcjuarters one day, and took his stand bashfully near the counter. When asked his errand, he looked down at his scorched boots and timidly answered that he desired a pair of boots. Not being certain of his size, he was told to remove the old and try the new ones on. The lad hesitated, but, being urged again, he became much mortified, and finally blurted out that "mother had some yarn alright, but she hadn't had time to darn the holes in his stockings before he left home." This disclosed the mystery of his peculiar actions ; and it is needless to say the condition of his much-worn foot-gear was overlooked and gladly pardoned. The donations given by the kind sympathizers were used for many purposes. Nearly all stock-owners had lost their winter's supply of hay ; other people needed material for temporary homes, while nearly everyone 86 Tales From the Minnesota Forest Fires required more or less in the way of food and clothing. Then, at Christmas-time, the eager little ones were not forgotten. Several of them had wondered if St. Nick would care to visit such a dreary-looking place ; and one little girl, Alice, had even penned a letter to "Santa Claus," asking if he would please send her and the haby sister a doll apiece, for she had pinned his picture to the wall and it was the only picture they had just at the present time. Some toy, and a parcel containing fruit and confectionery, was given to each child living at any of the various places destroyed. The small gifts brought happiness to many a tender heart. In years to come, they will not forget their first Yuletide after the fire. Times had then changed in many a household, and therefore the kind deeds were highly appreciated by the children. In behalf of these, the writer will again extend the most Rebuilding- Spooner, or Doing- Business Five Days after the Fire. laics I'l'oiii the Minnesota I'orcst I'ircs 87 heartfelt thanks to ah concerned in mivini;- Httle ones happiness. To the credit of several weH-known in(h\i(hials in tlie locahty, it may he said they showed their trne worth dnrino- the trying- period l-'orgettini;- their own con- (htion, the\- hd)ore(l incessantly for the sake of others. Jf nothing else could he accomplished, tlie\- would at least, with a warm hand-clasp, silentl\- express their sympathy for distressed fellow^ creatures. \'ery soon did the work of rehuilding the towMis hegin. From early morn till late, day in and day out, did the Beg-inning- First House foi- Shevlin-Mathieu I^br. Co., Oct. 12, 1910. husy hammers sound, even through tlie coldest winter weather. Alany fine huildings have 1)een erected. Cement pavements have taken the place of those destroyed. Everywhere have signs s])rung u]) which clearl\- indicate pluck and perseverance among the people. In the coun- try communities, agriculture has heen pursued even more extensively than he fore. As seed driven hv the State was Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires Beaudette Congregational Church, Dedicated Oct. Sth, One Yeai After the Disaster. City Hall and Auditorium, Spooner, Minn., After the Disaster in 1911. I'alrs From tlic Miiiiicsofa I'orcst I'ircs 89 Part of Beaudette and Spooner Nine Months after Catastrophe. Harvesting Oats on Cowan's Farm, 1^/^ Miles from Beaudette, Aug. 1911. go Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires distributed to the farmers, large areas of blackened land were converted into high, waving fields of grain and hay during the first summer, on all farms where the owners had taken an interest in the industry. Travelers passing through the northern part of Min- nesota, on the Canadian Northern Railroad, will wonder at the utter desolation of forest regions in different parts of the devastated country. The unusual sights contrast greatly with the beautiful wooded groves and green hills and valleys in other parts of the State. But we hope and feel confident that, as time advances, these portions will also l)lossom out, and a flourishing, progressive region will be seen instead. Ere the conclusion of this narrative, the inhabitants of the various vicinities had celebrated the first notable Memorial Day held here. Wishing to pay tribute to the dead, arrangements were made for the services to be held on May 28th, 191 1, so that as many as possible could be present. Leaving the auditorium at Spooner, the people started out, headed by the Boy Scouts, lodges and school chil- dren. At Beaudette those citizens joined them, and together they proceeded to the cemetery.' All were laden with some remembrance for the departed, if not more than a spray of evergreen. The march was indeed an unusual one. All along the way were signs of the fire's ruinous work. The once verdant trees had disappeared. Only the blackened trunks and massive upturned roots were left to denote where these had formerly been. Arriving at the graveyard, we saw the mounded trench of those whose memory we had come to honor. laics I'roiii the Minnesota I'orcst I'ircs ()\ Beaudette and Spooner Citizens Marching- to" Cemetery, Memorial Day. Scene in Cemetery in May, 1911, Memorial Day, 92 Talcs From the Minnesota Forest Fires already decorated with wild spring flowers and ever- greens. Serious thoughts stirred each heart as we stood viewing the mound. Vivid recollections reminded us that, only a year before, these also had been among the living. Filing in order, the people gathered on the hillside and all around the near-lying graves. The children stood on one side laden with flowers and foliage. Up yonder, on a hill, were the Scouts, standing at attention under the large flag which floated on the breeze. All had a tinge of solemnity ; even the sky seemed to suit the occa- sion, with dark clouds overcasting the background, show- ing only glimpses of blue and white through fleecy shadows. The ceremony was led by Col. Foster of Duluth. Rev. Howard delivered the memorial address. After singing two patriotic songs, and the familiar hymn, ''Nearer My God to Thee," the benediction was given by Rev. Hill, of Spooner. A short tribute was then paid to the vet- erans who were present ; one of these a northern settler and a "fire fighter" as well, who had fought in the long civil war. The bugle-call was sounded, echoing through the ravines and resounding over the river bends. This was done in honor of the veterans who had shown such valor in enduring hardships on the battle field ; and like- wise in honor of the courageous pioneers who had come to the recent wilderness, hoping to achieve better results ; to erect homes here that would be their pride and com- fort in years to come. Now their cherished aims and amotions were stilled forever. Now they were at rest, never more to be burdened with the cares and struggles Talcs Prom ilic Minnesota Forest Fires 93 First Memorial Services observed by Beaudette and Spooner Citizens in Memory of the Fire Victims of Oct., 1910. of a "homesteader's" life, nor with any earthlv conllict. At the close, the graves of the trench were decorated, first l)y the citizens and various lodges ; then by the hoys ; followed l)y the girls, who carried ferns and white car- nations. In the rear came two small Scouts, hearing a beautiful fioral wreath, presented b>' tlic Red Cross Society of Washington, D. C. IMacing this reverently at the head, the adorning of the trench was completed. Soon the sounds of tlie living were hushed, and the dead were again left to their (piiet repose in tlie fire-swept cemetery. 94 Talcs From flic Minnesota Forest Fires This brief "write up" will give to readers a true conception of this awful catastrophe. Its rumors have, no doubt, been spread over the entire United States, yet to many, most of the incidents described will be new and ever appealing. JUL 24 1912