Winona County Historical Society
February 1 - March 31, 2013
In 1912-13, Rockwell Kent came to Winona and left a legacy behind. A new exhibit at the Winona County History Center will explore Kent's time here and the people he befriended. Kent was the builder for the twin Georgian mansions of Briarcombe Farm, belonging to lumber baron William H. Laird's two daughters, Frances Bell and Maude Prentiss. Kent also befriended Winona musician Carl Ruggles, held an art show at the Winona Public Library and created some chaos with his wild horse down the quiet streets of our river town.
Artifacts on exhibit include the original color architectural drawings of Briarcombe done by Kent, Prentiss and Bell family items, and more from the WCHS collections, as well as an original wood cut engraving by Kent that was an invitation to Kent's farewell feast held at the completed Briarcombe farm courtesy, Study Collection of Jake Milgram Wien. Visitors will also take a virtual tour of Briarcombe today through a video featuring commentary from Maude's great grand-daughter, Laurie Lucas, and Festival organizer, Taff Roberts.
The Winona County History Center is located at 160 Johnson St. in downtown Winona. It is open weekdays 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and weekends 12 - 4 p.m. The History Center holds three floors of exhibits, the Laird Lucas Library and Archives, Museum Shop and beautiful event space. Admission is $5 adults, $3 students. Plan your visit at www.winonahistory.org.
Partial Sponsorship:
