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Did you know about Hibbing MN Famous Residents? Bob Dylan tops the list! And there may be others, such as Kevin McHale, NBA Hall of Famer. But don’t forget Rudy Perpich, former governor of Minnesota. Of course, Hibbing retains so much more. However, you can go back to the overview of Northern Minnesota here.
Hibbing Table of Contents
- Hibbing Minnesota
- Hibbing MN Famous Residents
- Mining rules the roost
- The town that moved – There must be several Hibbing MN Famous Residents in that move!
- Hull Rust Open-Pit Mine
- Hibbing High School – public schools
- Hibbing Historical Museum: Where History Comes to Life (and Dust Bunnies Too)
- Greyhound Bus Museum – is a bus one of Hibbing MN Famous Residents?
- Summary including Hibbing MN Famous Residents
So… let’s get on with it!
Here’s the first section about Hibbing itself.
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Hibbing Minnesota
Hibbing once called themselves the “world’s largest village.” In the 1970s, Minnesota removed the designation between cities and villages. The people of Hibbing protested that decision! Today, the city boasts a population of about 16,000, according to the 2020 census. However, it reached the largest population of over 21,000 in 1980. While mining continues, it decreased in recent years, and more automation reduced the number of workers.
Of course, Hibbing remains in the heart of iron ore country in Minnesota. The city lies about 75 miles northwest of Duluth. Hibbing, like Duluth, lies in St. Louis County. See the interactive map for other things to do and see.
Hibbing MN Famous Residents
Undeniably, Hibbing boasts they have more famous residents than most cities their size!
Bob Dylan is one of Hibbing MN Famous Residents (most famous?)
Bob Dylan remains the most famous person to emerge from Hibbing. Born in Duluth, Minnesota, Bob Dylan spent much of his formative years in Hibbing. Visitors take tours of Dylan’s childhood home, which has been preserved to look just as it did when he lived there. Undoubtedly, the tour becomes a great way to learn about the early life of one of America’s most iconic musicians.
By the way, the street on which he lived became Bob Dylan Drive.
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While attending high school, Dylan played in several bands and was heavily influenced by the music of Little Richard and Elvis Presley. Following graduation in 1959, Dylan moved to Minneapolis to pursue his music career. He won so many awards (I can’t find any good estimate!) and received wide recognition as one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
Roger Maris
Roger Maris, former major league baseball player and one-time holder of the seasonal home run records with 61. Although after his birth in Hibbing, he spent his “formative” years in Fargo, ND.
Kevin McHale
For sports fans, Kevin McHale, NBA Hall of Famer, also ranks up there. Kevin McHale is a former NBA player and coach. He was born in Hibbing and attended Hibbing High School, where he played basketball. McHale went on to play college basketball at the University of Minnesota before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1980. He spent his entire 13-year NBA career with the Celtics, winning three championships. After his playing career, McHale went on to coach several NBA teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Houston Rockets.
Rudy Perpich
Rudy Perpich became a politician who served as Minnesota, USA’s 34th and 36th governor. He was born on June 27, 1928, in Carson Lake, now part of Hibbing. He spent his early years in Hibbing and practiced dentistry before going into politics. Perpich served as governor from 1976 to 1979 and again from 1983 to 1991. He focused on education, economic development, and healthcare during his tenure. Perpich became known for promoting international trade and attracting foreign investment to Minnesota. Additionally, he became known as one of our quirky governors, along with Jesse Ventura!
Echo Helstrom – not one of Hibbing MN Famous Residents!
Her claim to fame? She became Bob Dylan’s high school girlfriend! She’s believed to be an inspiration for “Girl from the North Country,” one of his classic ballads. They broke up long before he became famous.
Mining rules the roost
The discovery of iron ore in the Mesabi Range in 1890 marked the beginning of a new era for the region. The discovery occurred when a surveyor named Frank Hibbing arrived in the area to survey a proposed railroad route. He noticed the rich iron ore in the ground staked a claim on the land.
Soon after, mining companies began to flock to the area. The Oliver Iron Mining Company, a subsidiary of U.S. Steel, became the first company to establish operations in the area. By the early 1900s, the company established a massive open-pit mine that surrounded the city of Hibbing on three sides. (See more about that below.)
Mining continues today, with minimal processing here, followed by shipping to Lake Superior for additional processing and transport to steel mills in Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
The town that moved – There must be several Hibbing MN Famous Residents in that move!
When it comes to moving a small town, the task can seem daunting. But that’s exactly what the residents of Hibbing, Minnesota had to do in the early 1900s. The town was built on top of a rich iron ore deposit, and as mining operations expanded, so did the need for more land. The solution? Move the entire town two miles south to make room for the mine.
The decision to move the town of Hibbing was not an easy one. The residents built their lives around the old location, and many were resistant to the idea of leaving. However, the need for more land to support the mining operations became simply too great to ignore.
In addition to the need for more land, the move also presented an opportunity to build a new and improved town. The old location of Hibbing happened quickly and without much planning, resulting in a hodgepodge of buildings and infrastructure. The move allowed for a fresh start, with new buildings and services funded by the mining company.
Overall, the move was a success, and the town of Hibbing continues to thrive in its new location. It’s a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Hibbing, who were willing to uproot their lives for the greater good.
Hull Rust Open-Pit Mine
Visit the largest open pit mine in Minnesota. It currently measures more than three miles long, two miles wide, and 550 feet deep. Yes, it is, indeed, the largest open-pit mine. The visitor center provides a history of mining on ‘Da Range,’ a northern Minnesota way of referring to the Iron Range country of Minnesota.
You will find a gift shop and displays of some of the equipment used in the mine. Since 1895, the mining companies removed more than 1.4 billion tons of earth from the 2,000 acres of land. At peak production in the 1940s, as much as 25% of the ore mined in the US came from this mine. The museum remains an attraction today.
Hibbing High School – public schools
Hibbing High School remains the public school in the area. The building became a showcase after its construction from 1920 to 1922. The building followed an ornate Tudor Revival style. The auditorium’s chandeliers cost $15,000 each back then. Today, they are insured for $250,000 each. In today’s dollars, the estimated cost, if built today, runs over $50 million!
Hibbing Historical Museum: Where History Comes to Life (and Dust Bunnies Too)
Introduction
Hibbing, Minnesota, is a small town with a big history. Known as the “Richest Little Village in the World,” it has a fascinating past that is celebrated at the Hibbing Historical Society Museum. The museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the Iron Range and the people who lived and worked there.
The Hibbing Historical Society Museum is located in the heart of downtown Hibbing and is housed in the historic Memorial Building. The museum’s exhibits showcase the town’s rich history, from its founding in the late 1800s to the present day. Visitors can explore the town’s mining heritage, learn about Hibbing MN Famous Residents who called Hibbing home, and discover the stories of the town’s early settlers.
Interestingly, one of the most popular exhibits at the museum is a scale model of Hibbing, as it looked in 1913. The model is accompanied by a ten-minute narration that takes visitors on a journey through time to the town’s early days. The museum is open year-round, and visitors can explore its exhibits on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Museum summary and conclusion
After exploring the Hibbing Historical Museum, visitors will leave with a greater appreciation for the rich history and culture of this small town. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating look into the town’s mining past, its move to a new location, and the people who helped shape its unique identity.
One of the highlights of the museum is the scale models of Hibbing as it looked in 1893 and 1913. These models give visitors a sense of the town’s development over time and the changes that occurred as a result of the mining industry.
Another interesting aspect of the museum is the Hibbing Almanac, which allows visitors to relive important events in the town’s history by turning the pages. From the town’s founding in 1870 to its move in 1919, the almanac provides a detailed look at the town’s past.
Overall, the Hibbing Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Minnesota’s Iron Range. With its informative exhibits, friendly staff, and engaging displays, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the past that is both educational and entertaining.
Greyhound Bus Museum – is a bus one of Hibbing MN Famous Residents?
Interestingly, Greyhound Bus got its start in Hibbing in 1914 with runs from the city to the mines, then to a few additional local cities. After acquiring a company providing service to Duluth, the company relocated there as well. After many changes and merges, Greyhound became the largest bus company in the US. Current headquarters are in Dallas, TX.
Summary including Hibbing MN Famous Residents
After exploring the charming town of Hibbing, it’s clear that this small community has a lot to offer. From its rich mining history to its beautiful natural surroundings, visitors will find plenty to see and do here.
While the town may not be as well-known as some of the larger cities in Minnesota, it’s definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s mining heritage or simply want to enjoy the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Hibbing.
Overall, Hibbing remains a hidden gem that’s just waiting to be discovered. Its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway. So, it’s a great place to visit; don’t miss it when in the area!
Classic Rock Recollection
“Subterranean Homesick Blues” by Bob Dylan
Johnny’s in the basement
Mixing up the medicine
I’m on the pavement
Thinking about the government
The man in a trench coat
Badge out, laid off
Says he’s got a bad cough
Wants to get it paid off
Written by Bob Dylan
#hibbing #bobdylan #openpitmine #thetownthatmoved #