Jeannette O. and Harry D. Ayer donated their large collection of Ojibwa arts and crafts to the Minnesota Historical Society in 1959. For many years, the Ayers acquired items made by members of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwa for their personal collection and for resale at their trading post. The collection contains many excellent examples of traditional Ojibwa objects such as bandolier bags, moccasins, belts and bands.

The Minnesota Historical Society is making detailed information about its collections of historical artifacts, photographs and art works available via the Web. In the future, you will be able to search a database for a description of each item and view images of many.

The objects from the Ayer Ojibwa Collection currently housed at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post represent a sample of the broad spectrum of items that will be available and are now accessible via PALS, the Society's online catalog. Each description contains a link to an image of the object.

The Ceremonial category includes objects associated with a number of American Indian activities that may or may not have other associations as well. In discussions with the Society's Indian Advisory Committee and through collections viewings by spiritual and sacred leaders, Curatorial staff has identified object types or categories that may be sacred or sensitive. These objects are not listed in the Society's public catalog, and physical access to them is restricted.

Photograph of Harry D. and Jeannette O. Ayer at their trading post near Onamia, Minnesota.