Ramblings from the Trail

This book allows the reader to explore as Ellet did, fully immersed in a sense of place, its habitat and its history. Ellet’s notes chronicle her exploration of the area, the settlers creating a new life on the prairie, and the native Indians adapting to change. The writings she left behind are a treasure for the generations that follow her. Thanks, Vicki, for discovering this treasure.

—Nancy Tyra-Lukens, Eden Prairie Mayor, 2002-2006; 2011-2018

The Elizabeth Fries Ellet Interpretive Trail, located in the City of Eden Prairie, is one of the busiest nature and interpretive trails in the twin cities area. Significant amenities along the trail are interpretive signs that bring to life the many types of surrounding landcover, along with highlighting historical events throughout the region. The writings of Elizabeth Fries Ellet featuring her impressions of the area help link current visitors to experiences of the past. The Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation Department staff are proud stewards of the trail.

—Jay Lotthammer, Eden Prairie Parks & Recreation Director

Through her lengthy research and attention to detail, Vicki Pellar Price has become the premier authority on the connection of Elizabeth Fries Ellet’s life and work related to the exploration, naming, and early impressions of the Minnesota town today known as Eden Prairie. It is with deep gratitude that I acknowledge Prices’ devotion and prominence in adding color, flavor, and perspective to the story of our community’s earliest beginnings.

—Kathie Case, President, Eden Prairie Historical Society