The Bench
Sit a while – rest and reminisce.
Donated by the van der Hagen family in memory of Geraldine van der Hagen.
June 20, 1920 – May 12, 2021
I had the honor of being a neighbor to Geraldine for the last 10 years. Many of those summers were spent trying to sneak veggies over to her house only for our kids to come back with cookies, a few dollars or some other treat. She was never to be out done in acts of kindness. A trait she passed on to her children. Stopping by quick meant time filled with old stories, gratitude, and encouragement to “keep raising those kids well”. I was blessed to have known her and it has been a great joy to capture the community enjoying this tremendous gift. “The Bench” sits in front of the Cultural Centre and we welcome you to come and sit a while – rest and reminisce.
sit a while – rest and reminisce
The Bench Photos
Photography courtesy of Leta Jacobs, Design by Leta and property of Design by Leta and the Cultural Centre in Bird Island. However, you have Rosemary’s permission to steal them for your Christmas cards.
2026 CULTURAL CENTRE GALLERY EXHIBITIONS
April – Julie Schweiss, Realism (Oil)
Hector, MN
May – Greta Franklin, Fluid Art (Acrylic)
Redwood Falls, MN
June – Pat Amberg and Sons, Sculpture (Found Objects)
Bird Island, MN
July – Grandma Ellis’ Art (Private Collection)
Olivia, MN
August – Adult Client Training Services
Olivia, MN
September – Quilters Along the Yellowstone Trail
From all over the USA & world
October – Lisa Rau Photography (Nature)
Olivia, MN
November – Ron Kailor (Pottery) & Sue Happel (Jewelry)
New Ulm, MN
Address
640 Dogwood Avenue P.O. Box 434
Bird Island, MN 55310
(320) 365-1011
birdislandculture@gmail.com
Gallery Hours
Tuesday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm
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This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board and The Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.