I saw this charming menu from the Hotel Minnesota in 1907 and had to know more. Was "Lettuce in Mayonnaise" a precursor to our more modern salads? What is Charlotte Russe? Does the hotel still exist? Who was William E. Boyd? I found answers to most of these questions and more. But first a look at this 113 year old menu:

"The Minnesota Hotel once took up half a city block in downtown Detroit Lakes, located at Frazee Street and Washington Avenue -- which was once considered the edge of town, as nobody wanted to be by the lake. The hotel, famous around the country, was considered "the jewel" of the city. Owned by E.G. Holmes, the building burned down in a fire in 1915, which reportedly started in the laundry room."

"This hotel is heated by steam, has electric lights, public and private baths, and all other modern appliances for the comfort and convenience of its guests. The transient rates are $2.00 per day, with suitable concessions to guests remaining for two or more weeks. In August, 1902, a syndicate of Detroit citizens purchased Hotel Minnesota. The building was thoroughly repaired and refurnished. New plumbing and a steam heating plant were put in. An addition with three large steam heated and electric lighted sample rooms and other conveniences were erected. . . William E. Boyd is manager of the Hotel Minnesota, the first class house of the town. This is the best hotel in this section and Mr. Boyd is the right man in the right place."