It was in California in 2014 when I started making bags for my family and friends. I enjoy being in the outdoors and sharing that experience with my grandchildren. In order to fit all the camping gear in the vehicle, I soon realized I would need bags to hold and transport all the camping gear for our adventures. I first started making bags in a garage. I bought the machines, waxed canvas and leather. I didn’t have much experience in sewing and everything I have done has been self-taught.

My wife Dianna and I, moved back to Northern Minnesota in 2018 after we both retired. I set up operations in the basement of our home. We own a cabin on the Pike River Flowage, hence the name for the business. It’s a place we love to spend time with our family and friends.

In 2020 with a little encouragement from Dianna, I began to sell my bags at the local area Farmer's Markets.

In 2021 I realized I needed a bigger space to make my products. My wife and I bought the building at 515 Main Street in Tower where I have a retail store to sell bags as well as other gift type items. Pike River Products is hoping to give back to the community and rent out other spaces in the building to businesses that are trying to make a go of it and take their businesses to the next level.

I take pride in each bag I make. I craft and design them to last for many years.

- Terry