Historic Bluff Country Off the Byway Two

Off the Byway

Canton

Identity: "What's in a Name?"

Attractions: Antiques

Amish Crafts

History: First settled in 1851, the village of Canton is reported to have had a spirited contest over its naming. The final vote went for Canton but many citizens preferred Elyria. Both names are cities in Ohio where many of the area's settlers came.

Mabel

Identity: "A Step Back in Time"

Attractions: Steam Engine Museum

Classic Cars

History: Mabel celebrates the past by highlighting the behemoth tractors used in early farming activities before the gasoline engine.

Celebration: 50's and 60's Celebration (2nd Sat. in August)

Steam Engine Days ( weekend after Labor Day)

www.mabelmn.com

Spring Grove

Identity: "Minnesota's First Norwegian Settlement"

Attractions: Norwegian Folk Art of Rosemaling

Sculptures of Norwegian Heroes

Ye Olde Opera House Summer Musical

History: By 1870, Spring Grove was the home to 1135 Norwegians and only a few dozen non-Norwegians

Celebration: Syttende Mai Festival (mid-May)

www.springgrovemn.com

Eitzen

Identity: "Small Town Celebration"

Attractions: Fishing

Hunting

Wildlife Museum

History: In many small towns of southern Minnesota, annual festivals, gatherings, and celebrations help to mark the passing of time and the seasons. Eitzen is no different.

Celebration: Family Fun Fest (July 4th)

Historic Bluff Country

National Scenic Byway