About the Author

Donald Empson graduated from the University of Minnesota Library School with a Master’s degree in 1965. He was a public librarian (1966-1967); an Instructor at the University of Iowa Library School (1967-1970); Reference and Map Librarian at the Minnesota Historical Society (1970-1976). He repaired antique clocks and watches and invested in real estate paper from 1976 until 1988 when he decided to drop out of the everyday working world.

Since then, he has spent a lot of time with his wife, Kathy, written several volumes of local history, and tried to enjoy every day of his life. His wife, Kathleen Vadnais, contributed a good deal of wit and color to this book, as well as being an editor to all his writing. She has a background in journalism, community activism, and is now a professional mediator.