When I here the word “ruins” I think of Ancient Egypt or the Babylonian Empire. Signs of a previous civilization. Proof of past culture and community. I don’t think of ruins in Fergus Falls. But Fergus Falls has ruins. In fact, there is a park dedicated to the ruins. The park itself is probably one of the most difficult to access in the entire state of Minnesota! A long winding trail coursing down into the river valley of the Otter Tail River will bring you to the site. My understanding is there are efforts that will be underway this coming summer to make the park more welcoming and accessible. That would be a wonderful thing.
So what is this site? Broken Down Dam Park. A massive concrete dam that failed in 1909. Built in 1908, the dam had a fairly brief service life. There is speculation as to what caused the failure but there is a theory the dam was built upon springs and that contributed to the demise of the structure. The dam collapsed into several large chunks and the images of the site – my featured image to this post – are readily recognizable by anyone familiar with the park.
Experiencing the ruins of Fergus Falls
I was down to the dam site several times this past year, taking photos. It is such a beautiful, yet primitive place. Wildflowers and wildlife thrive at the site. Humans enjoy the location as well as it is a popular tubing feature in the summer months. The ruins add a sense of intrigue to the site. The ruins in Fergus Falls.
There is no flood plain in Fergus Falls however, the collapse of the Fergus Falls Hydro Dam (Broken Down Dam today) caused the first and only flood of Fergus Falls. A couple other dams were taken out when Fergus Falls Hydro Dam failed. Additionally, a bridge was destroyed and there was overland flooding. Fortunately there was no loss of life.
I don’t know much more about the site but I do know there will be an excellent book coming out this coming year that will provide a wealth of information on the history of Fergus Falls and will include much more information on Broken Down Dam. Watch for it!
Moving on from the dam to the river
One closing thought on Broken Down Dam. I think a winter shot would be cool! I need to get out there. Hope I don’t take a tumble with all this snow cover.
I also captured a few shots of the Otter Tail River at this location and will close with that imagery. Please know all images are available at my website. Check them out. Good stuff at affordable prices. Give a shout if you have any questions. You can reach me here.
You owe it to yourself to experience the Broken Down Dam Park. A local treasure to Fergus Falls, MN. It is a very calming and soothing experience (once you get passed the terror of the descent down the river bank!) Just kidding, it’s not that bad. You just want to be part Billy Goat and you will have no problems whatsoever. As always, Peace.
