As a college girl, I waitressed 3 summers at Birkeland’s, beginning in 1962.
Neoma, our cook, was justifiably famous for blueberry pancakes, tomato bisque soup, and a huge variety of dishes Sally Birkeland had taught her for the twice-weekly smorgasbords that brought many locals as well and tourists. And Ruth, the pastry chef, contributed frozen praline pie and the best chocolate sauce ever. I gained 20 pounds every summer All of us girls who worked there, in the dining room and cleaning cabins also were responsible for singing for the guests after the Wed. night smorgasbords. We worked hard—but what a beautiful setting! Mid-afternoons found us on the dock or beach. Usually the loons arrived before we left around Labor Day. And we could walk to the Point, a perfect spot for solitude. A special treat was to get out a night or two, sometimes all the way over to Rutgers’!
Greetings. Many many years ago my family would vacation at Birkelands Bay Lake Lodge once a year. I think it was in late 60’s maybe early 70’s. We made the drive up from Farmington Mn. I believe her name was Sally. Very kind and warming person that was in charge at that time. Also remember the oatmeal was best ever! It brought many great memories of the times we were there. I was about 10 or 12 when I was there. I think we visited for like 7 or 8 years in a row.
Jon – any chance your Birkeland family has any history around MilleLacs, Isle or Wahkon? My original from-Norway ancestor is Osmund Birkeland (his kids were Edna, Everett and Leonard- the latter being my grandfather.
I know this is a fairly common name in Minnesota so the answer is likely no, but I figured it couldn’t hurt to ask.
As a college girl, I waitressed 3 summers at Birkeland’s, beginning in 1962.
Neoma, our cook, was justifiably famous for blueberry pancakes, tomato bisque soup, and a huge variety of dishes Sally Birkeland had taught her for the twice-weekly smorgasbords that brought many locals as well and tourists. And Ruth, the pastry chef, contributed frozen praline pie and the best chocolate sauce ever. I gained 20 pounds every summer All of us girls who worked there, in the dining room and cleaning cabins also were responsible for singing for the guests after the Wed. night smorgasbords. We worked hard—but what a beautiful setting! Mid-afternoons found us on the dock or beach. Usually the loons arrived before we left around Labor Day. And we could walk to the Point, a perfect spot for solitude. A special treat was to get out a night or two, sometimes all the way over to Rutgers’!
Naomi was the best cook when I was there in the early 70’s. A very restful and peaceful vacation.
Greetings. Many many years ago my family would vacation at Birkelands Bay Lake Lodge once a year. I think it was in late 60’s maybe early 70’s. We made the drive up from Farmington Mn. I believe her name was Sally. Very kind and warming person that was in charge at that time. Also remember the oatmeal was best ever! It brought many great memories of the times we were there. I was about 10 or 12 when I was there. I think we visited for like 7 or 8 years in a row.
This is the site of my great, great, great grandparent’s homestead (George Albert Hunt).
April-
My family owns the property now. I can send you a couple really cool pic of your ancestor’s home and farm on the property.
Jon – any chance your Birkeland family has any history around MilleLacs, Isle or Wahkon? My original from-Norway ancestor is Osmund Birkeland (his kids were Edna, Everett and Leonard- the latter being my grandfather.
I know this is a fairly common name in Minnesota so the answer is likely no, but I figured it couldn’t hurt to ask.