Red Wing in Goodhue County, Minnesota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Kiwanis Stairway
Citizens of Red Wing have long sought convenient access to the summit of Mt. La Grange (Barn Bluff) to enjoy the impressive view of the Mississippi valley.
In 1889 local civic leader C.C. Webster promoted the construction of a path up the west face of the bluff. Built with volunteer labor, it became known as Webster's Way.
In 1908 members of the Civic League under the leadership of A.W. Pratt, organized a community group to rebuild the then long-neglected pathway. For several years thereafter high school seniors, under the supervision of George H. Cook, held an annual half-day work holiday to maintain the path.
In 1929 the Red Wing Kiwanis Club sponsored the building of a concrete stairway along Webster's Way to the crest. To provide the funds, local citizens purchased steps inscribed with their names.
With the dedication August 24, 1929 by Gov. Theo. Christianson, the Kiwanis stairway became a point of great interest in the area.
Building of the Eisenhower Bridge in 1959 resulted in the removal of much of the stairway. The steps were reset in 1975–6 along the southeast side of the bluff.
Beginning at this point, a pathway again provides means of ascent to the top of one of Red Wing's historic landmarks.
Erected 1976 by the Red Wing Kiwanis Club.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Landmarks • Roads & Vehicles. A significant historical year for this entry is 1889.
Location. 44° 34.086′ N, 92° 31.179′ W. Marker is in Red Wing, Minnesota, in Goodhue County. Marker can be reached from East 5th Street, half a mile east of Bluff Street, on the left when traveling east. Marker is southeast of the bluff, along the pathway going to the crest of the bluff. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Red Wing MN 55066, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Mt. La Grange – Barn Bluff (a few steps from this marker); Barn Bluff (within shouting distance of this marker); The G.A. Carlson Lime Kiln (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Remember the Maine (approx. 0.3 miles away); Geology of Minnesota (approx. 0.4 miles away); a different marker also named Kiwanis Stairway (approx. 0.4 miles away); William Colvill (approx. ¾ mile away); National Newspaper Association (approx. 0.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Red Wing.
Credits. This page was last revised on December 9, 2020. It was originally submitted on November 27, 2009, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 1,762 times since then and 40 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 27, 2009, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. 4. submitted on August 9, 2011, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. 5, 6, 7. submitted on October 4, 2011, by Carole J Chauncey of Satellite Beach, Florida. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.