Dad’s Memories of Growing Up in the Small Town of St. Vincent Minnesota

At one time, land speculators thought St. Vincent, Minnesota, would become the new St. Paul, Minnesota, due to its location along a major transportation corridor in the Red River of the North and its proximity to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. However, this explosive growth never occurred. After maintaining a fairly steady population for many years, it is barely hanging on today.
During our dad’s youth, from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, St. Vincent was a beautiful and memorable place to grow up. Like many kids from small towns across Minnesota, he fondly remembered his home town of St. Vincent, the Red River of the North, family, games and activities, mischief, and hunting. After his retirement, he wrote down these memories in a journal. Many of these stories are included in this video, which is narrated by his children. Also included are early 1900s views of St. Vincent, Minnesota, and what it looks like in 2024.
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[@tootired76]

I love your excellent presentations! As I'm watching this I'm imagining and picturing my Dad, aunts and uncles growing up on a small farm near Carlos, Minnesota, emphasis on a very small town.

[@JP-su8bp]

Solid presentation, thank you.

[@HistoryStillThrives]

Great presentation and a good glimpse into your dad's life back then. Sad to see the old buildings falling apart.

[@jeremyperala839]

I have memories of that area, even though I am from 3 hours south. I was in long distance internet relationship with Winnipeg girl. I was in the Marine Corps in California and came home on leave. I did not have a drivers license or a passport, only a military ID. I went on a trip to meet her in person in Winnipeg. The thought of crossing the border made me uneasy. I drove (illegally, yes) around pembina and st Vincent until i found the courage to proceed to the border checkpoint. They didnt give any guff. What a reIief! am glad that I did find courage to try the border that day. we have been married now for almost 19 years and have three children.

[@eworks9828]

I wonder if the kids today will have fond memories of now forgotten places.

[@tfishing8320]

Thank you very much. Very nice tribute.

[@hankfrankly7240]

Great video. Small towns, big memories.