what we do

Since 1982, we sponsor an annual two-day Chautauqua and Arts Festival event at Old Crossing Treaty Park in Huot, MN on the fourth weekend of August.

*Photo by Grant McMillan, 2023

Chautauqua and Arts activities include exhibits or talks on the region’s history and heritage, professional artists, and local creative presentations.

* Photo of Keith Bear & Bud Larsen by Troyd Geist, 2024

Volunteers make our event a joyful social atmosphere, from the festival food menu to the Saturday evening bonfire.

* Photo by Grant McMillan, 2024

Our motto is Friendship. Through friendship we are drawn to understand others.

* Photo of  Jason Benoit & Keith Bear by Troyd Geist, 2024

We present the 1840s history of Old Crossing on the Red Lake River which first became a place of crossing by ox cart caravans carrying merchandise to and from the Twin Cities.

* Photo by Grant McMillan, 2024

We reflect on the treaty of 1863 which took place at Old Crossing. We explore the history and ongoing heritage of Red Lakers, Pembina and Metis people who have inhabited the area since the 1700s.

* Photo by Jeffrey Dawson, 2024

WE HELP people get involved in their communities and build relationships locally, regionally and around the world.

* Photo of Wendell Landen making brooms while members of Riverside Ramblers look on, by Troyd Geist, 2024

WE BELIEVE in the value of understanding as many cultures as possible. Professional artists and local presenters help us understand and appreciate all the cultures of those who were here and those who are still coming to live here since the Homestead Act and treaties of the 1860s.

* Photo of Ryan Keplin Band by Grant McMillan, 2024

PLEASE JOIN US AS A GUEST TO ONE OF OUR EVENTS OR AS A SUPPORTING MEMBER.

Member and foundation support are essential to what we do.

Thank you.

* Confluence of the Red Lake and Clearwater rivers at Red Lake Falls, MN, by Jeffrey Dawson, 2024