RAPIDAN TOWNSHIP, Minn. – The Rapidan Dam store, a cherished local landmark, has met a tragic end. Earlier this week, the historic building partially crumbled into the Blue Earth River, marking the end of an era for the community.
On Friday, Blue Earth County officials confirmed they had taken control of the dam store property from the Hruska family and dismantled what remained of the structure from the riverbank. The loss has been deeply felt by the Hruska family, who owned and operated the store for years.
“My family has lost their home, their business, their livelihood, and soon, their land,” said Shannon Whittet of the Hruska family. “This feels like a death in our family.”
For years, the Rapidan Dam store was more than just a business; it was a place where families gathered to create lasting memories. The store was even featured in a 2022 segment of Finding Minnesota, highlighting its significance to the local community. Fortunately, items like the bar, chairs, tables, and memorabilia were salvaged before the building’s collapse.
The collapse was triggered by debris blocking the dam, which caused the Blue Earth River to erode the riverbank, bringing the water dangerously close to the structure. The building teetered on the edge for several days before finally giving way.
The loss of the Rapidan Dam store is a blow to the community, which now faces the challenge of moving forward without one of its most beloved landmarks.