Archaeological evidence indicates that humans have been in this region for at least 8,000 years. That is the approximate age of a human skeleton found just north of Pelican Rapids in 1932. Found with the remains was a shell pendant and a tool made of elk antler.

Evidence of more extensive activity was uncovered in 1977 along the banks of the Dead River. Archaeologists unearthed thousands of pieces of pottery shards, spear and arrow points and cooking refuse. Called the Dead River Site it dates between 1,000 – 1,200 years ago.

Hundreds of burial mounds are scattered throughout Otter Tail County demonstrating that Indigenous people were active here. Why?

The unique mix of grassland, water and woodland provided ample natural resources to support human activity. It was the same natural resources that attracted fur traders, town site speculators and European immigrants.

Writing about the attractiveness of Otter Tail County for Scandinavians, Hjelm Hanson wrote in the summer of 1869:

“Concerning the problem of settlement, it is my opinion that this part of the country presents so many advantages for Scandinavian farmers. The soil is fertile to the highest degree and is exceptionally easy to cultivate for there is not so much as a stone or stump in the way of a plow.”

Dane Prairie Township is one of the oldest townships in Otter Tail County. Its soil is well suited for farming and with 75 lakes partly or wholly within its borders it is an ideal place for hunting and fishing.

Like many other townships, Dane Prairie reflects its ethnic heritage. Seeking a better life for himself, Niels Thygesen left Denmark and with an ox team and covered wagon took a homestead in Section 11. With the arrival of more countrymen, a petition to the county to form a township was made. Dane Prairie’s first official meeting was held in Thygeson’s home.