Booyah, Baby! How You Can Try A Midwestern Comfort Food In Minnesota’s Iron Range
🎉 Step back in time and savor the flavors of history (and booyah!) at the 110th Vermilion Range Old Settlers Picnic in Minnesota’s Iron Range. 🍲 #MinnesotaNews #MinnesotaEvents #MinnesotaFood
SOUDAN, MN – Every year, on the third Saturday of July, a remarkable event takes place in Minnesota’s Iron Range. The Vermilion Range Old Settlers Picnic, now celebrating its 110th anniversary, is a living embodiment of the rich history and unwavering spirit of this exceptional community.
Hosted at the picturesque McKinley Park on the banks of Lake Vermilion, this picnic is more than just a gathering—it’s a celebration of heritage, tradition, and the ties that bind a community together.
We actually wrote an article a few weeks ago about booyah, and Susie Chiabotti, manager of McKinley Park campground on Lake Vermilion, emailed us with this fun news tip! Thanks for your help, Susie!
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🥘 Booyah: A Culinary Legacy Unlike Any Other
At the core of the Old Settlers Picnic is a gastronomic treasure: Booyah. This robust lumberjack stew, prepared with a medley of meats and vegetables, is cooked overnight in huge cast iron kettles over an open flame. The recipe, handed down through generations, remains largely unaltered, with only the procurement of ingredients evolving over time.
Historically, the pork, beef, and vegetables were sourced from nearby farms, but today, the organizers endeavor to use as many local ingredients as possible. The outcome is a savory, comforting dish that attracts people from near and far.
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🌿 Paying Tribute to the Trailblazers of the Vermilion Range
The Vermilion Range, extending from Tower-Soudan to Ely, was the first of Minnesota’s three Iron Ranges to witness the emergence of iron ore mining in the 1880s.
The Old Settlers Picnic, initially sponsored by the Oliver Mining Company in 1916, was a means to honor the industrious miners and their families. As time passed, the event transformed into a community-wide celebration, welcoming all who wish to pay homage to the courageous pioneers who paved the way for the region’s development and success.
🌍 A Tapestry of Cultures
One of the most extraordinary facets of the Vermilion Range’s history is the diversity of its early settlers. Immigrants from over 40 ethnic groups, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Austria, and Yugoslavia, journeyed to this corner of Minnesota in pursuit of opportunity.
The Old Settlers Picnic is a reflection of the mosaic of cultures that shaped the region, and a reminder of the strength that lies in diversity.
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📜 Safeguarding History for Generations to Come
As the years advance, events like the Old Settlers Picnic become increasingly crucial in preserving the rich history of the Vermilion Range. By uniting to share stories, memories, and a meal, the community ensures that the legacy of their ancestors endures.
The dedication of a monument in 1934, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the first shipment of iron ore from the Soudan Mine, stands as a tangible reminder of the sacrifices and achievements of those early pioneers.
🎉 An Invitation to All
Whether you’re a descendant of the early settlers or simply someone who cherishes the history and spirit of the Iron Range, the Vermilion Range Old Settlers Picnic greets you with open arms.
So mark your calendars for the third Saturday in July, bring your appetite and a sense of adventure, and prepare to embark on a journey through time for a truly unforgettable experience.
As the dinner bell gongs at noon and the aroma of Booyah permeates the air, you’ll find yourself immersed in a celebration of community, heritage, and the indomitable spirit of Minnesota’s Iron Range. Happy (and tasty) travels!
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🗣 Have you ever tried booyah? What’s your favorite Midwestern munchie? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
