Keeping Kate’s spirit alive
The Royal Order of Klondike Kates (ROKK) is a nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota, inspired by the colorful life and generous spirit of Kathleen Rockwell — the original Klondike Kate.
Each year, a new Klondike Kate is sashed during the annual Klondike Kate Contest. As the Reigning Kate and the St. Paul Winter Carnival’s Mistress of Fun and Frivolity, she can make upwards of 400 appearances throughout her year, bringing a little Klondike spirit wherever she goes.
A character with a real story
Klondike Kate isn’t just a Winter Carnival legend. The character was inspired by Kathleen Rockwell, a young entertainer and businesswoman who made a name for herself during the Yukon Gold Rush.
Later in life, Kathleen became known for her generosity and involvement in her community. That combination of showmanship and giving back still shapes what it means to be a Klondike Kate today.
Kathleen Rockwell: The Real Klondike Kate
Long before the red dress, feathers and songs became part of Saint Paul Winter Carnival tradition, Klondike Kate was a real woman named Kathleen Eloisa Rockwell.
Fun, frivolity and a whole lot of giving back
Beyond the Reigning Kate’s appearances, the Royal Order of Klondike Kates is also invited to make 35–50 unpaid appearances each year. The Kates support veterans and first responders, entertain at community events, assist with nonprofit fundraisers, perform in parades and make personal appearances throughout the year.
Together, they contribute more than 300 hours preparing for and participating in these appearances — volunteer work valued at more than $10,000 annually.
For the Kates, fun and service have always gone hand in hand. They show up, put on a show and use the spirit of Klondike Kate to make a difference in the communities around them.