Minnesota and History

Part of learning to appreciate Minnesota comes from learning about its history. The best place to start for historical information is The Minnesota Historical Society's website. From there you can check out the calender of events, learn what exhibits are going on and see upcoming events.

Minnesota's historical museums and sites have a lot to offer for everyone. For those who like to conduct their own research, the Library is a great place to start. Every Saturday morning there is a free class conducted to show people how to use the library and its resources. Not only can one learn all about Minnesota's history, but also their own at the library. Family records can be accessed and the library conducts classes for those interested in genealogy. While the intro course to the library is free, the other courses offered are not.

Be sure to click on the link to places from the MHS website. It will take you to a listing of the 26 historic sites and museums, most of which are open seasonally. There is also a link to a listing of all registered historic sites in MN, some of which are open to the public and most are still privately owned. If you are more interested in the geography of the area there is a site for that too. With the history behind place names and a brief history of each county.

The Minnesota History Center has something for everyone as well. They make history come alive with their history players. Actors who portray a specific person in Minnesota history, from a school teacher to a newspaper editor and even a WWII pilot. You can call ahead to find out which one will be performing before you arrive. There are also plenty of exhibits about MN History, Art, and Culture going on at the history center as well. You can even take in a show at the Museum's Theater.

Admission fees to visit most of the exhibits ranges from $5-$10 dollars with special events sometimes costing more. Be sure to check out the earlier post about Libraries, there is a special event going on where you can "checkout" and admission ticket for free at some twin cities libraries. Another way to cut cost would be to get a membership to the MHS. A family membership is $75, members get in free to exhibits and it is a worthwhile purchase for a family of 4 or larger who wish to visit the museums and historic sites more than twice in one year. Students and seniors receive discounts at many locations also.

So don't let cabin fever set in, Spring is on its way and there are plenty of indoor and outdoor opportunities to explore with the Minnesota Historical Society!