The Forest City Stockade is a reminder of how life was like back in 1862. You can tour all of our historic buildings, which also show the progress of Forest City in the form of new construction. The Stockade hosts two family-friendly events annually, where you can step back in time and enjoy friendly people, delicious food, and many pioneer activities.

The Forest City Stockade is located 6 miles Northeast of Litchfield and approximately 1/2 mile South of Forest City on Minnesota Highway 24. Enjoy our website and please contact us for further information.

Remembering Bob Hermann

September 30, 1942 - January 4, 2026

Robert "Bob" Walter Hermann, the son of Walter and Freda (Johnson) Hermann, was born in Litchfield, Minnesota, on September 30, 1942, and grew up on a farm northeast of Litchfield. He attended District #74, a one-room school, through 8th grade and graduated from Litchfield High School in 1960. A highlight of his early years was attending John F. Kennedy's inauguration in Washington, D.C. in 1961.


Bob's life as a farmer began after graduation from high school by renting 80 acres from a neighbor. He purchased additional land and started raising polled Hereford cattle. For 34 years he sold Pioneer Seed Corn, working closely with neighboring farmers.

Bob was a lifetime member of Ostmark Lutheran Church in rural Watkins. He served on numerous committees with the church.

In 1963, Bob joined the Minnesota Air National Guard, serving for six years.

Bob married the love of his life, Betty Rick, in 1966. They were blessed with two children, Tami and Todd. Family meant everything to Bob, and he cherished his relationships dearly.

Bob served on the Litchfield School Board of Education for 21 years. He and Betty provided a scholarship for Litchfield students for 20 years in memory of their son, Todd. Bob's goal was always to give back to the school district for the 12 years they gave to him and he, by far, exceeded that goal. Bob was inducted into the Litchfield Hall of Fame in 2022.

Bob and Betty dedicated almost 50 years with the Forest City Stockade Committee. Bob oversaw and actively participated in the construction of all the buildings on site. Over the years, Bob and Betty gave tours to thousands of school age children and adult visitors to the area. They also went to several area schools and gave talks and demonstrations on pioneer life.

Bob was a charter member of the Kingston Lion's Club. Bob was also a member of the Meeker County Park Board, serving for 20 years. He was also the chairman of the Peanut Butter and Milk Organization. Following the death of their son, Bob worked with the Compassionate Friends organization, supporting other parents who lost a child.

Bob proudly lived in the Litchfield area all of his life and selflessly gave back to the community by serving on many boards and committees to help the wonderful people who live here. In 2009, the Minneapolis Aquatennial organization awarded Bob the Honorary Commodore Ambassador for his dedication to community service.

A hardworking man whose faith was strong and his integrity solid, Bob had a servant's heart for helping others. He was a friend to everyone. Bob leaves a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity and he will be missed beyond measure, along with his Bob Hermann Hug.

Front Page News!

• The Forest City Stockade is now on Facebook! Be sure to Like and Follow us for the latest happenings at the Stockade!
• Camping at the 2026 Summer Rendezvous will be by invitation only. Please go to the Rendezvous Information Page for more details.
• Buy a log to help us rebuild the wall and walkway of the Forest City Stockade. Go to the Buy a Log Page for more information.

• Betty and Bob Hermann are featured
  in the December 2014 issue of Zest!
  Read the Zest article.