True hibernators’ body temps drop, their heart beat slows, and they don’t ‘wake up’ when prodded or exposed to loud noises. Black bears, chipmunks, snakes, frogs, toads and some turtles hibernate. Other mammals go into torpor, a state of deep, temporary sleep from which they wake to eat, drink, release waste.

Learn more about bear hibernation.

A Photo Art Exhibit by David R. Johnson

Join the JHP Art Gallery for an exhibition of new works.

Stop in to see the exhibit during our regular business hours: Fridays 1 – 4 pm & Saturdays 10 am – 2 pm

You may also schedule an online viewing of the exhibit

With an average temp of 42°, Lake Superior acts like a hot water bottle emanating a little warmth up the hillsides. This occurs November through April when daily highs air temps drop below 40°. The warmth sits in the bowl created by the hills. Once you pass the hilltop, temps can drop by 15°.

When very cold winter air meets the relatively warm lake water, fog is created. This fog hovers over the surface and is known as sea smoke. You will most often see sea smoke in January when it is really cold.

Due to the State of MN Emergency Executive Order 20-99, the Cook County Historical Society properties including the History Museum & the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery will be closed to occupancy by members of the public starting November 21st – December 19th. We hope everyone stays safe during these difficult times and look forward to seeing you again in December.

If you have any questions or a research request please contact Katie at: 218.387.2883 or katie@cookcountyhistory.org

When the first snow hits inland roads, they are salted to keep ice from forming. Like many of us, moose crave a little salt. Carefully drive paved roads – like the Gunflint Trail or Minnesota Highway 1 – at dusk [around 4 pm this time of year]. Keep an eye out and be prepared to stop. The same thing happens when temps warm in the spring in mid- to. late-March into April.

See more photos here

Known as the Beaver Moon as it is the time of year beavers store branches near their lodge for winter food. Since beavers are nocturnal, I wonder if their work is made easier under the light of a full moon. This moon is also known as the Frost Moon as November is when first frost occurs for many [not on the North Shore – where it happens in September].

Workshops, opportunities and events

The Art Colony will offer multiple virtual mentorships with Sun Yung Shin, Donna Bruni, Shannon Gibney, and Ernest Miller.
Check our site for additional information

Upcoming events and courses at North House Folk School

December
2:: Felting for the Holidays  online
2 :: Artisan Cheesemaking: Farmer’s Cheese  online
3 :: Holiday Wreath Making  webinar
3-6 :: Build Your Own Yurt
4-6 :: Kick-Sled Building
10 :: Needle Felted Santas   online
13 :: Saami Inspired Four Braid Bracelet  online
10-13 :: Build Your Own Yurt
11 :: Holiday Wreath Making  webinar

Find detail on the North House website.

2020/2021 Season

Fri-Sun: Dec 4-6

Open Daily: Dec 11, 2020 – Apr 11, 2021

Extended Weekend: April 17-18 and 24-25, and May 1-2

*Holiday Dates: Dec 26-Jan 3; Jan 16-18 and Feb 13-15

Local artisans selling their wares – jewelry, wood products, food, soaps, knit/crochet goods, etc.  Masks are required!

Join us for an evening enjoying Christmas cookies and hot chocolate around the fireplace while we recount the age-old tale of A Visit From St. Nicholas and maybe join in singing a few Christmas carols as well.

2020/2021 Season

Open Daily: Dec 11, 2020 – Apr 11, 2021

Extended Weekend: April 17-18 and 24-25, and May 1-2

*Holiday Dates: Dec 26-Jan 3; Jan 16-18 and Feb 13-15

The Geminids is the king of the meteor showers. It is considered by many to be the best shower in the heavens, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon, which was discovered in 1982. The shower runs annually from December 7-17. It peaks this year on the night of the 13th and morning of the 14th. The morning of the 15th could also be nearly as active this year. The nearly new moon will ensure dark skies for what should be an excellent show.

Meteors will radiate from the constellation Gemini, but can appear anywhere in the sky.