What do our myths say about us? Why do we choose to believe stories that have been disproven? David M. Krueger takes an in-depth look at a legend that held tremendous power in one corner of Minnesota; helping to define both a community’s and a state’s identity for decades.In 1898; a Swedish immigrant farmer claimed to have discovered a large rock with writing carved into its surface in a field near Kensington; Minnesota. The writing told a North American origin story; predating Christopher Columbus’s exploration; in which Viking missionaries reached what is now Minnesota in 1362 only to be massacred by Indians. The tale’s credibility was quickly challenged and ultimately undermined by experts; but the myth took hold.Faith in the authenticity of the Kensington Rune Stone was a crucial part of the local Nordic identity. Accepted and proclaimed as truth; the story of the Rune Stone recast Native Americans as villains. The community used the account as the basis for civic celebrations for years; and advocates for the stone continue to promote its validity despite the overwhelming evidence that it was a hoax. Krueger puts this stubborn conviction in context and shows how confidence in the legitimacy of the stone has deep implications for a wide variety of Minnesotans who embraced it; including Scandinavian immigrants; Catholics; small-town boosters; and those who desired to commemorate the white settlers who died in the Dakota War of 1862.Krueger demonstrates how the resilient belief in the Rune Stone is a form of civil religion; with aspects that defy logic but illustrate how communities characterize themselves. He reveals something unique about America’s preoccupation with divine right and its troubled way of coming to terms with the history of the continent’s first residents. By considering who is included; who is left out; and how heroes and villains are created in the stories we tell about the past; Myths of the Rune Stone offers an enlightening perspective on not just Minnesota but the United States as well.
#1255465 in Books University of Arizona Press 1992-02-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.10 x 6.00l; 1.30 #File Name: 0816512981327 pagesearly history of the city of Tucson; Arizona
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. A Must Have for Those of Latino Heritage in Tucson.By elaineThis is a precious book to me. Having discovered that I had Latino ancestors from Tucson; my soul hungered for more information.A wonderful book that takes me back to a time way before I was born and helps me understand and connect with my ancestors and their way of life. Excellent!2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Definitive history of the huge influence of Hispanic culture in early Anglo AZ.By AZterritoryDefinitive history of Tucson AZ during the early years after the Anglos took over from colonial Spain and then Mexico in 1854. This is a great read for those who need to learn the people didn't move; the BORDER did.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Calling all Arizona buffs or Linda Ronstadt fans. You've gotta read this book.By Annette RanaldAs the title suggests; it is primarily an academic book; written by a professor and suitable for study in an upper-level college course about Arizona history. But that shouldn't deter the average reader. There are enough anecdotes and narrative in this book to make it interesting. Old Tucson (which is still locally called the Old Pueblo) dates back to 1692; when Jesuit missionary Eusebio Francisco Kino established nearby Mission San Xavier del Bac (the White Dove of the Desert) and a settlement was formed near what is now "A" mountain. By 1775; the Spanish had established the Presidio de San Augustin de Tucson. In the centuries since its founding; Tucson has seen its fair share of Indian raids and battles of all kinds; not to mention cameo appearances by various outlaws and other characters in Arizona history. And; as always; it has been at the center of tensions and debate on the Border. Then; there's the Ronstadt family; the story of which seems to tie the whole book together. Whether you're into Arizona history; or you're a Ronstadt fan; you'll enjoy this book.
