England Prairie has been rooted in history since 1873–1874, when the Furness Colony from England selected this untamed land as their new home.
“In the month of June last, the ‘Furness Colony’ purchased the town-site and also 40,000 acres of railroad land in this vicinity. Mr. W. S. Hurst, the President of this colony, has erected a large and commodious reception-house for the temporary use and accommodation of the colonists as they arrive.”
—From an August 12, 1873 newspaper article published in Detroit Lake (then known as Detroit)
Along with English settlers, the Furness Colony included Scottish families who made their homes west of Wadena in Compton Township, Otter Tail County. These early pioneers stayed, cultivating the land and laying the foundation for the community that exists today.
The England Prairie Pioneer Club is dedicated to preserving the rich farming history and heritage of the Wadena area. We are an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that operates through fundraising efforts and generous donations, working to ensure that the stories and legacy of these early settlers continue to be shared for generations to come.
“In the month of June last, the ‘Furness Colony’ purchased the town-site and also 40,000 acres of railroad land in this vicinity. Mr. W. S. Hurst, the President of this colony, has erected a large and commodious reception-house for the temporary use and accommodation of the colonists as they arrive.”
—From an August 12, 1873 newspaper article published in Detroit Lake (then known as Detroit)
Along with English settlers, the Furness Colony included Scottish families who made their homes west of Wadena in Compton Township, Otter Tail County. These early pioneers stayed, cultivating the land and laying the foundation for the community that exists today.
The England Prairie Pioneer Club is dedicated to preserving the rich farming history and heritage of the Wadena area. We are an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that operates through fundraising efforts and generous donations, working to ensure that the stories and legacy of these early settlers continue to be shared for generations to come.
