Now on view!

Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow

Explore the African American fight for full citizenship and racial equality that unfolded in the 50 years after the Civil War.

This exhibit is now on view at the Minnesota History Center.

Now on view!

The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz

Explore Charles Schulz’s personal history and his role as the inspiration and artistic talent behind Peanuts and its beloved cast of characters. Exhibit now on view at the Minnesota History Center.

History Forum

Since 2004, the History Forum has explored the richness, expansiveness, and complexity of American history with some of the nation’s best scholars. That tradition continues with six new lectures highlighting the diversity and excellence of today’s historical scholarship.

Welcome to the Minnesota Historical Society

History shapes, inspires, and informs the present. We strive to bring forward, share, and preserve the diverse histories that make up Minnesota’s complex past. Experience Minnesota history through our network of historic sites, museums, and exhibitions, our extensive collections and research, and our thought-provoking educational programming. Join us! Cultivate your curiosity and experience powerful engagements with history today.
  • Image
    Get out and explore MNHS historic sites and museums around Minnesota.
  • Image
    Fife players in historic costume.
    View all MNHS programs and events.
  • Image
    Leather drawstring bag decorated with floral beadwork.
    Search a wealth of records and images from MNHS collections.
  • Image
    Delve into essential research tools, materials, and services.
  • Image
    Three teenagers sit at a table looking at papers and writing notes.
    Learn about field trips, the Northern Lights textbook, primary sources, and more.
  • Image
    MNHS preserves and protects the objects, documents, and places that make Minnesota home.
  • Image
    Following my spirit home book.
    MNHS Press is a leading publisher of books on the history and culture of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
  • Image
    Hotdish hot pads.
    Shop for books and gifts relating to the fascinating people, long history, and unique culture of Minnesota.

Explore

Collections, stories, and more

March is Women's History Month! Learn about some of the Minnesota women who fought for access to the ballot and related causes.

MNopedia

Motorettes

Before World War II, operating streetcars was considered a man’s job. Between July 1943 and November 1945, the Twin City Rapid Transit hired 381 motorettes. Even though this was an era when many women did not drive, a driver’s license was not required to run a streetcar.

MNHS Press

Record executive, producer, band manager, club DJ, booking advisor, record store manager—few people had as deep an impact on the Twin Cities alternative and indie rock scene as Peter Jesperson.

Use our online resources and the Gale Family Library to research your past and understand the life we share today. Search our extensive database of birth and death certificates and the State Archives. 

State Emblems Redesign Commission

Learn about the recently-adopted designs for a new state flag and state seal, which will go into effect on May 11, 2024. As outlined in state legislation, the Minnesota Historical Society provided administrative support to the State Emblems Redesign Commission.

Upcoming

MNHS Events

Planning Your Vegetable Garden Workshop

Saturday, March 16, 2:30 PM
Oliver Kelley Farm

Learn how you can design, establish, plant, and harvest a new vegetable garden.

Fascinator and Headpiece Millinery Workshop with Karen Morris

Saturday, March 16, 2:30 PM
James J. Hill House

Each student will leave with one finished fascinator/headpiece at the end of class and learn essential skills from the…

Photography & Art at the Rock

Featuring Lynn Zsidov-Steiner

Saturday, March 16, 3:00 PM
Split Rock Lighthouse

For the month of March, our featured artist is Lynn Zsidov-Steiner.

Laura Purdie Salas and Kayla Harren Author Event

Saturday, March 16, 3:30 PM
Red Balloon Books, 891 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55105

All aboard for Oskar's Voyage book launch!

Winter Horse Drawn Rides

Saturday, March 16, 4:00 PM
Forest History Center

Take a horse drawn ride around our site through the forest.

Winter Horse Drawn Rides

Saturday, March 16, 5:30 PM
Forest History Center

Take a horse drawn ride around our site through the forest.

Pokegama and Gaaginwaajiwanaag

Saturday, March 16, 6:00 PM
Forest History Center

Learn about the neglected stories of the Pokegama Band of the Mississippi Ojibwe.

Brian Leehan Author Event: "Pale Horse at Plum Run"

Saturday, March 16, 6:00 PM
Historic Fort Snelling

Brian Leehan, author of "Pale Horse at Plum Run," will speak about the First Minnesota at the battle of Gettysburg…

Mill City String Quartet: Women Composers, Women Performers

Saturday, March 16, 7:00 PM
Minnesota History Center

Celebrate Women's History Month with Mill City String Quartet (MCSQ) and The Minnesota History Center!

26 locations
Unlimited history

MNHS historic sites and museums offer unique insights into Minnesota’s past and present.

Come explore the lives of lumberjacks, learn how Indigenous knowledge has shaped our history, step into the world of famous Minnesotans, or take in spectacular views!


Become a member

MNHS membership is the best way to create your very own historic adventure. Members get the best deal in history with free general admission and discounts on events, purchases, and more at our historic sites and museums for a full year.