On This Date in Minnesota History: December 14

December 14, 1916 – Ernest G. Strand, Socialist mayor of Two Harbors and representative-elect of his district, was arrested this morning by Sheriff Emil Nelson and brought into district court to answer to indictments returned against him by the grand jury for accepting bribes.

It is alleged that on two occasions Strand accepted “hush money” from P. L. Fullerton, proprietor of the Two Harbors Commercial Hotel, who is alleged to have operated a “blind pig,” or speakeasy. It is alleged that in May 1916, Strand, while acting in the capacity of mayor, accepted $25 and a similar sum on July 7, 1916, making a total of $50. He was arraigned before Judge Dancer and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The judge fixed his bond at $500 to appear in court Monday morning, Dec. 18. He was released on his own recognizance.

The Bemidji Daily Pioneer; “Socialist Mayor is Accused of Bribery”; Dec. 14, 1916; p. 1.

Commercial Hotel and Boat Landing, Two Harbors Minnesota, 1910
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