Scandia Heritage Alliance

We invite you to be part of Scandia’s Legacy – to partner with us in rebuilding the iconic Water Tower Barn, create greater understanding of our shared immigrant histories, and celebrate local art and artists.

The Scandia Heritage Alliance envisions bringing back the historic Water Tower Barn as an Arts & Heritage Center and telling the important story of its role in our early 20th Century history. The state’s only remaining tank house, this unique barn stood behind the Scandia Mercantile and provided water to early businesses and residents. In addition to showcasing the hard work and success stories of Scandia’s second generation—such as the Mercantile, millinery, creamery, and bank—we envision showcasing an operational well – including a replica of the wood water tank, windmill, and hand pump – plus a playground water feature for children. Additionally, the water focus will provide an opportunity to educate visitors via museum displays on the importance of our local wetlands, lakes, streams, aquifers, and the St. Croix River – vital features of our beautiful city.

And what about the “Arts” in “Arts & Heritage”? Living in the St. Croix River Valley, we are surrounded by an amazing arts community that is not currently showcased in Scandia. In addition to demonstrating a functioning 19th Century well, the Water Tower Barn along with an outdoor amphitheater will include space to bring our community together for local and regional art shows, music productions, and film – plus events in partnership with nearby community theaters and other cultural organizations. We envision space for art classes, a gift shop showcasing local artists, and a summer café featuring traditional Swedish fare.

Over the past year, our dream has come several steps closer to reality! We have a signed agreement with the City of Scandia that gives us a location for the Arts & Heritage Center - and we have a Master Plan in progress. We need to raise $10,000 in 2020 to complete the Master Plan and architectural renderings.  We invite you to participate in this exciting project!