John Torgrimson

John Torgrimson is managing editor and co-publisher of Root River Current.

Author's Archive

An older woman in a pink shirt holds up a white hood with eye holes. The right side of the graphic includes a reprint of an historical newspaper article titled: Ku Klux Klan invades Lanesboro.

Minnesota’s Hooded History

Surprising or not, the Ku Klux Klan was active in Southeast Minnesota in the 1920s. John Torgrimson reports on a recent presentation on the history of the Klan’s presence in the region.

A bright pink, purple, blue, and green sky of Northern Lights shine behind a plexiglas and wood sauna.

Things Are Heating Up at New Spring Grove Sauna Business

John Torgrimson ‘warms us up’ to a public sauna business in rural Houston County.

Pair of eagles sit on a snowy river bank on a sunny day.

Original Photography: Winter Scenes

Original photography from southeastern Minnesota featuring nature scenes and community activities.

A man in a brown shirt and woman in a light blue sweater stand in front of dark green cabinets and small pieces of art.

Art Center Serves as a Hub for Winona Artists and Community

Inside the Winona Arts Center: John Torgrimson introduces us to activities available to the southeast Minnesota region.

Black and white photo of a group of downhill skiers holding their skis upright in front of them with dark uniforms and large white labels on the front with their team numbers.

Ski Jumping In America Had Its Roots In Southeast Minnesota

At the turn of the 20th century, ski jumping was a growing sport in Southeast Minnesota. Steve Harris and John Torgrimson follow the history to its roots in Lanesboro.

woman at podium with other adults surrounding her, announcing a minnesota law suit

Regional Nitrate Issues Again Making Headlines

New lawsuit aims to ensure work continues to address nitrate contamination issues in southeast Minnesota.

Paul Schmidt in the shed on his farm where 64,000 garlic are drying. Schmidt Farm markets seed stock to a variety of garden and seed companies.

An Ancient Crop Makes its Home in Fillmore County

John Torgrimson visits Schmidt Farm’s garlic operation in Carimona Township, Fillmore County.

Root River area towns have stories to tell. (Map courtesy of <a href="https://www.rootrivertrail.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Root River Trail Towns</a>)

Root River Diary

This recurring series features original short stories based on observations and experiences of what makes our rural communities uniquely special. Learn more and submit YOUR story!