This collection encompasses 50-plus years of interviews, readings, speeches, and reports on the vibrant literary scene in Minnesota. Not only home to giants F. Scott Fitzgerald and Sinclair Lewis, our state has an array of incredible contemporary poets, novelists, and playwrights. Their words make up majority of this collection.
Repeatedly being named the “Most Literate City in the United States,” the Twin Cities has played host to numerous visiting national writers via book tours, festivals, and lectures. Many recordings of these are also included.
This project was funded by the National Historical Publications & Records Commission.
September 2, 1994 - Live from the Minnesota Public Radio State Fair booth, MPR’s Beth Friend hosts a special September edition of First Friday. Highlighted are the cast from the Penumbra play “Spunk,” vocalist Ruth Mackenzie demonstrates Swedish cow calls, the band Cave Music offers punk with a smile, Dancing Elvis Dads perform, and a visit State Fair art exhibit.
September 2, 1994 - On this edition of Voices from the Heartland, Susan Berkson's reads her essay on the differences of the Minnesota State Fair once the sun goes down. The lights turn on, the kids go home…and the teenagers roam.
September 3, 1994 -
September 5, 1994 - MPR’s Mary Losure reports on a day at the Minnesota State Fair with her family. Between the Midway and food, it’s an illuminating monetary experience.
September 5, 1994 -
September 8, 1994 - Midday presents a look back at deceased Minnesota writer Fredrick Manfred and his work. Program includes a 1980 interview with the author.
September 8, 1994 -
September 8, 1994 -
September 8, 1994 -
September 8, 1994 -