Rural history comes to life in Manfred

Manfred History and Preservation Inc., will be hosting a the Manfred Pioneer Festival on Sunday, July 22 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Manfred was founded by European settlers in the 1890’s, and in it’s earliest days, the site was known as the Jim River Crossing of Mouse River Trail.

In 2000, Manfred History and Preservation Inc., began restoring and preserving the history of Manfred, according to their website their goal was to maintain “An authentic settlers’ community celebrating rural America.”

Last year, the Manfred Historic District was selected to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, citing the Manfred as “an excellent example of an agricultural town that showcases both the rise and decline that was common of rural towns.”

The Manfred Pioneer Festival will begin with the recognition of the designation on the National Register of Historic Places, which will then me followed by old-time musical entertainment and historical skits for all ages. Throughout the afternoon, festivalgoers can see demonstrations by quilters, knitters, spinning wheel worker and other early village occupations. A “standing still” parade will feature vintage tractors, vehicles and other historic items. Other activities will include old-fashioned games, wiener roast and ice cream social. In addition, interpretive tours will be available in the Manfred Historic District and the Manfred Heritage Museum.

If you have questions concerning the event or would like to feature your old farm equipment or cars in the standing still parade, please call (701) 399-6782.