Posted: August 4, 2026

(LeRoy, Minn.) — A century-old story of generosity, scandal and embezzlement will be on stage on Saturday, Aug. 8, as part of LeRoy’s 150th anniversary celebration.
A notorious chapter of local history
Dawn Holmquist, owner of Humanities 101 LLC, has written an original bio-musical about Cy Thomson, the former Geo. A. Hormel & Co. comptroller who embezzled more than $1 million from the company between 1911 and 1921 — the equivalent of roughly $20 million to $25 million today.
Thomson later used much of the money to develop Oak Dale Park south of LeRoy, a popular amusement destination that attracted visitors and performers from across the country.
Turning history into a musical
Holmquist said the idea for the production came after she read Cy Thomson, The Generous Embezzler, a book compiled by longtime local historian Eileen Evans.
“I felt as though I had hit the jackpot,” Holmquist said. “I immediately knew I had to write a play about Cy’s story.”
Holmquist spent years researching the production, using resources from local libraries, the Hormel Archives and materials shared by Janet and Dick Mayer, who live on the former Oak Dale Park property.
The vaudeville-style bio-musical combines historical facts, humor and music to tell the story of one of LeRoy’s most memorable figures.
“Although it is a cautionary tale, the audience should expect to have a fun time,” Holmquist said. “We are gently making fun at our ‘hero’ while not wanting to glorify the crime that was committed.”
Local talent takes the stage
The production features local performers, including Wilson Merritt, Sophia Squire and Claire Squire in lead roles, along with Axel, Lilli, Max, Ellie and Finn Gumbel, Mabel and Walter Ulwelling, Ryder Leason, Rebecca Couch, Donna Bhend, Gaye Stockdale, Ronn Vandevender, Tod Merritt, Allen Brown and Holmquist.
Performance information
Three free performances will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, at 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Humanities 101 LLC. Seating is first-come, first-served. The first 50 attendees at each performance will receive assigned seats.
The performance is recommended for ages 12 and older. During intermission, attendees can purchase popcorn, water, commemorative T-shirts and books. The venue is handicap accessible.
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