the backstory

August 18, 1957 An old-time showboat returned to the Mississippi River as an ambitious civic project in Grand Rapids, Minn. The boat, powered by two outboard motors, brought the “Mississippi Melodie II” to a riverside platform at Grand Rapids, featuring choristers, bands and dancers. Earl Seubert, Minneapolis Sunday Tribune

"There’s no doubt it was a great honor for Minnesota," he said. “We continue to reach for the stars, but during the bicentennial year we need to look at where we’ve been to see where we’re going." Bruce Bisping, Minneapolis Star Tribune

January 5, 1983 C. Peter Magrath, president of the University of Minnesota, sampled a dish prepared by his wife, Dianne. His favorite dessert, Strawberry Cake, is included in "Minnesota's Greatest and Best Recipes." Duane Braley, Minneapolis Star Tribune

December 3, 1990 Scott Olson was one of many roller skaters who glided through the concourse at the Metrodome. Most of the skaters that spent time rolling around the metro area lakes this summer, now find the smooth, dry concrete floors, heat, and light of the Metrodome concourse preferable to the Minnesota winter outside. David Brewster, Minneapolis Star Tribune

We had to go hunting for Science Museum dinosaur photographs in the archives after the whole Stranger-Things-purple-Thunder-Lizard-hoodie thing. This one’s not quite from that era, but pretty close. 

September 26, 1992 Dedication of Minnesota's Vietnam Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol. At the wall, under a quote form Archibald Macleish, "We were young. We have died. Remember us," Greg Stromath,from Lake Elmo, did a rubbing of David M. Halbauer's name, for a friend. Mike Zerby, Star Tribune

August 24, 1949 Experimental packages of frozen corn on the cob are tasted and tested by Mrs. Shirley Johnson, technologist, frozen food laboratory; J.D. Winter, director of the laboratory; and Dr. Andrew Hustrulid, professor of agriculture engineering. "A popular, but unsatisfactory method of freezing sweet corn is making the rounds right now, members of the frozen food laboratory at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul campus are conducting new tests on the correct way to freeze this food.” Minneapolis Star Tribune

Yes, friends, we’re back after a long hiatus. We hope to continue posting here, perhaps once a month.

September 22, 1987 Pete O'Brien, a Texas Rangers first baseman, is tagged out by third baseman Gary Gaetti during his run down from 3rd base to home in the 6th inning. The 1987 Twins went on to win the World Series. (Bruce Bisping, Minneapolis Star Tribune)

Aug. 16, 1974 We suspect this photo might have been staged, but we're going to use it anyway. Che Che Glick Fanny Anoka UD, a poodle owned by Elizabeth Glick of Anoka with trophies from 350 dog competitions, opens a savings account at the First National Bank in Anoka. The idea originated with bank employee Dick Nelson, in exchange for Che Che's obedience training performances at the bank. Roy Swan/Star Tribune

July 12, 1993 A "big hair" contest was held before a screening of "Hairspray" as part of the Summer Movies and Music in Loring Park series. Marjie Thieman, left, took the award for "most volume," while Trevor Cook's 'do was labeled "most likely to incite civil unrest." Duane Braley, Star Tribune

Read more, and see the Minneapolis Tribune’s front page from that day.

He died in November 1993 after an inoperable tumor was discovered. (Brian Peterson/Star Tribune)

With only 30 seconds left to go, he asks his wife: 'Have we forgotten anything?'

May 17, 1978 World-class pool player Gloria Walker gives an exhibition at Gentleman Jim's Billiard Emporium in Minneapolis. Walker racked up a slew of national championships in 9-ball (1975), 8-ball (1976) and 6-ball (1976 and 1977). According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Walker defeated Minnesota Fats after he bragged that no woman had ever beaten him. "For $150 a night, Gloria Walker will destroy a man's ego," the Inquirer wrote. Jack Gillis/Star Tribune 

May 21, 1986: Prince concert contact sheet.  David Brewster/Star Tribune

We’re pretty sure this is the Summit Avenue boulevard in St. Paul, still a popular running route, even after more than 50 years.