Wood carving auction return Saturday at Alexander Corner

Each year, fairgoers can find relaxing and free entertainment in perhaps one of the more unexpected places at the Steele County Free Fair: at the lumberyard.

Or, at least the closest thing to a lumberyard the fairgrounds has each year.

Sponsored by Alexander Lumber, Robinson Wood Carvings once again set up shop at what is known as Alexander Corner, carving a variety of animals and other items into chunks of wood, turning what could be considered scraps into highly valued works of art.

In 2023, Alexander Lumber decided to have the SCFF auction off the carvings, with part of the proceeds going toward the Owatonna Foundation. More than $5,000 was raised for the Foundation during that inaugural year.

This year, the auction will return once again at 5:30 p.m. Saturday at Alexander Corner. Half of the proceeds raised will go to the Owatonna Foundation. All forms of payment will be accepted during the auction.