Whiteside Park Live Cam

Located nearby to Grace Lutheran Church




History

Ely is a city located in northeastern Minnesota, USA, and has a rich and varied history. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota Sioux. The Ojibwe people in particular have a long and rich history in the region, and their traditions and culture are still an important part of Ely's identity today.

In the late 19th century, the discovery of rich iron ore deposits in the area led to a surge of mining activity and the development of several mining towns. Ely itself was founded in 1888 as a logging town and quickly grew into a center of commerce and industry. In addition to logging and mining, Ely also became a hub for the transportation of goods and people throughout the region.

Over the years, Ely has weathered economic ups and downs, and has adapted to changing times and technologies. In the mid-20th century, the development of the nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and other natural attractions helped to shift the focus of the local economy toward tourism and outdoor recreation. Today, Ely is known as a destination for fishing, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Throughout its history, Ely has also been home to a vibrant community of artists, writers, and musicians. The city's unique natural beauty and cultural heritage have inspired generations of creatives, including the likes of Sigurd Olson, a renowned conservationist and writer, and Jim Brandenburg, a wildlife photographer.

Overall, Ely's history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people, as well as the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region.

Top Tourist Attractions

  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: This 1.1 million-acre wilderness area is a popular destination for canoeing, camping, and fishing. It has over 1,200 miles of canoe routes and more than 2,000 campsites.
  • International Wolf Center: The International Wolf Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating people about wolves and their role in the ecosystem. Visitors can observe live wolves in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior, ecology, and conservation.
  • North American Bear Center: The North American Bear Center is another nonprofit organization that aims to educate people about bears and their habitat. Visitors can view live bears in their natural habitat, learn about their behavior, and participate in various educational programs.
  • Soudan Underground Mine State Park: This state park is home to Minnesota's oldest iron ore mine, which operated from 1882 to 1962. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about the history of mining in Minnesota.
  • Dorothy Molter Museum: Dorothy Molter was a legendary resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness who was known as the "Root Beer Lady." The museum features exhibits about her life and the history of the area.
  • Ely Arts & Heritage Center: This museum showcases the history and culture of Ely, Minnesota. It features exhibits about the region's Native American heritage, mining history, and wildlife.
  • Miners Lake and Miners Beach: Miners Lake is a small lake located in the heart of Ely, surrounded by forest and hills. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the lake. Miners Beach is a sandy beach located on the shore of Miners Lake.

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Ely, Minnesota has to offer. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, history, or wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of Minnesota.

Climate

Ely, Minnesota has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January, which is the coldest month, is around 9°F (-13°C), while the average temperature in July, which is the warmest month, is around 68°F (20°C). The area receives moderate to heavy snowfall during the winter months, with an average of around 54 inches (137 cm) of snow per year.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with temperatures ranging from cool to mild. The weather can be unpredictable during these seasons, with occasional snowfall in the spring and early fall and frosty nights.

Summers in Ely are usually warm and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s°F (around 24-28°C). The area receives plenty of sunshine during the summer months, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and fishing.

Overall, Ely, Minnesota's climate is characterized by its cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers, with moderate temperatures in the transitional seasons of spring and fall.

Geography

Ely, Minnesota is located in the northeastern part of the state, in St. Louis County. The city is situated on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a vast wilderness area consisting of more than 1 million acres of lakes, rivers, and forests. The area is characterized by its rugged terrain, with numerous lakes and rivers, rocky outcroppings, and dense forests of coniferous trees such as pine, spruce, and fir.

The city of Ely itself is situated on the shore of Shagawa Lake, a large, scenic lake that is popular for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. The city is also home to several smaller lakes, including Miners Lake, which is located in the heart of the city and has a sandy beach for swimming.

To the north and east of Ely is the Superior National Forest, a vast wilderness area that covers more than 3 million acres and includes several large lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, wolves, bears, and bald eagles, and is a popular destination for camping, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

In summary, Ely, Minnesota is located in a region of rugged, scenic terrain characterized by numerous lakes, rivers, and forests, and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the United States.

Whiteside Park

Whiteside Park is a popular outdoor recreation area located in the city of Ely, Minnesota, USA. The park is situated on the east side of Shagawa Lake and covers an area of about 20 acres. It is named after Walter S. Whiteside, who served as the mayor of Ely for many years.

One of the most notable features of Whiteside Park is its beach, which is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and sports facilities, including tennis and basketball courts, and a baseball diamond.

In addition to its recreational amenities, Whiteside Park is home to several historical and cultural landmarks. The park's pavilion, which was built in 1922, is a local landmark and has hosted many community events over the years. The pavilion has also been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The park is also home to the Ely Field House, which houses the Ely-Winton Historical Society museum. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of Ely and the surrounding area. Overall, Whiteside Park is a beloved community resource in Ely, offering a wide range of recreational and cultural opportunities for residents and visitors alike.