Liberty Derrick
A highlight of Quarry Park is the historic Liberty Derrick. The Liberty Derrick exhibit is a tribute to central Minnesota's early 20th century granite quarrying industry, an industry that has played a large role in the economic growth and progress of Stearns County.
The Liberty Derrick was originally used by the Liberty Granite Company, founded in 1924, to hoist tons of large granite block. Such block was used locally as well as nationally for buildings, monuments and other large structures. These days granite quarried in Stearns County can be found all over the world.
After Liberty Granite closed in the 1950's the the derrick was left to the elements, but in 1996 it was acquired by the Stearns County Parks department. After analysis of the structure and fundraising efforts, restoration of the derrick began in 2005. The restoration process was a joint effort between Park department staff, industry experts and volunteers. In 2008 the fully restored derrick was again put to use at a community dedication celebration.
Today the derrick is operated once a year; however, visitors can view the derrick exhibit anytime Quarry Park is open.