Origin Story

For over 30 years, the giant Canada goose was thought to be extinct, until it was rediscovered in Rochester, Minnesota circa 1962. Scientists believe that because of the environment around Rochester, composed of spring-fed streams and vast prairies, the giant Canada goose had found a year-long residence.

A sense of pride to some and of nuisance to others, the goose had already been woven into the social fabric of the city—with its likeness displayed on our city flag and Charles Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, owning several. This made for the perfect, polarizing pick of a mascot for the music and arts festival I had just formed. In 2016, ROCKchester was born and the three goose insignia became synonymous with the arts scene in the area.

Cut to present day: three geese cross Broadway as I make my turn towards Highway 52, running north and south through Rochester. It’s a drive known by many in the area as it connects the city, and this day the flock of geese have chosen to unite the drivers around them in mutual annoyance. As I finally pass by and head towards my family home, I choose to think positively of the flock as they continue to stand their ground in the crowded roadway. I choose to see their commitment to protecting one another—their profound sense of family and community.

The Southeastern Minnesota region is tied to the animals and nature that surrounds us. This venture is founded with the intent on listening and learning from the environment and the artists that call it home, and sprawling out like the plains to share those lessons with the world. We hope you will join us on this endeavor and continue to listen to those around you and those before you, with the capacity of the driftless and the loyalty of the goose.

DH