Minnesota Historical Society

History Matters Day at the Capitol 2026

Speak up for history on March 5 at the Minnesota State Capitol. Meet with state legislators to discuss the importance of funding history initiatives.

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History Matters Day at the Capitol.
Celebrate

Black History, Black Voices

Deepen your understanding of Black history and the contributions Black Americans have made to Minnesota.

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Black History, Black Voices.
Minnesota History Center

Spotlight on Saint Paul Winter Carnival Buttons

A perfect set—Spotlight on Saint Paul Winter Carnival Buttons displays more than 100 carnival keepsakes dating back to the first Saint Paul Winter Carnival in 1886.

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Spotlight on Saint Paul Winter Carnival Buttons.

History Forum 250: Revisiting the Revolution

Mark the nation’s 250th anniversary with a series featuring leading historians and acclaimed authors who reveal new insights into the American Revolution and its lasting global legacy.

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History Forum 250: Revisiting the Revolution.
New Exhibit

The Stories We Keep: 25 Objects from MNHS

This exhibit features 25 objects from MNHS collections—a rich trove built on the generosity and foresight of thousands of people who have entrusted us with their belongings and their stories.

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The Stories We Keep: 25 Objects from MNHS.
Visit

Julia Child: A Recipe for Life

Step into the extraordinary life of Julia Child—a spirited trailblazer whose love of French cooking, perseverance, and humor transformed American kitchens forever.

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Julia Child: A Recipe for Life.

Explore

Collections, stories, and more

Our Home, Limited Edition Product Series

MNHS is featuring Prairie Island and former artist-in-residence Cole Redhorse Taylor for this limited edition product series of clothing, mugs, bags, and stickers featuring traditional Dakota designs.

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Explore

360 Virtual Tours

Experience all of our historic sites through immersive virtual tours. 

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Collections online

Search for photographs, three-dimensional and archaeological objects, artwork, oral histories, moving images, maps, and more.

Explore

Research your family history

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. 

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MNopedia

Flooding in Carver County, 1965

In April 1965, the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers crested at record levels, flooding cities and towns across the Upper Midwest. The disaster was especially evident in Chaska and Carver, where the Minnesota River reached its highest-recorded local level on April 12.

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MNHS Press

Euphoric Recall

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.

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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.

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Our Home, Limited Edition Product Series

MNHS is featuring Fond du Lac artist Sarah Agaton Howes of Heart Berry for this limited edition product series of clothing, mugs, bags, and stickers with traditional Ojibwe floral designs.

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Upcoming
MNHS Events

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Free Thursday Nights at the History Center

Free Thursday Nights at the History Center

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Visit the Minnesota History Center on a Thursday night from 4 pm-8 pm, and get FREE admission and parking!
Millers' Tour

Millers' Tour

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A 60-minute guided tour including many of the nooks and crannies of Mill City Museum.
One Fighting Irishman: Twin Cities Premiere Film Screening

One Fighting Irishman: Twin Cities Premiere Film Screening

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Join us for the film screening premiere of "One Fighting Irishman" by filmmaker Sharon Yamato.
Nooks and Crannies Fest

Nooks and Crannies Fest

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Get a behind-the-scenes look at areas of the James J. Hill House that are not featured on the standard house tour.
The Memory of '76: The Revolution in American History

The Memory of '76: The Revolution in American History

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The surprising history of how Americans have fought over the meaning and legacy of the Revolution for nearly two and a half centuries.
Virtual - The Memory of '76: The Revolution in American History

Virtual - The Memory of '76: The Revolution in American History

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The surprising history of how Americans have fought over the meaning and legacy of the Revolution for nearly two and a half centuries.
Author Event:

Author Event: "Dish and Tell: Recipes from the Heart" with Sarah Peterson

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Join us for the launch of "Dish and Tell: Recipes from the Heart," a new cookbook by Sarah Peterson
Winter Adventure Family Day

Winter Adventure Family Day

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A celebration of winter, with outdoor games and activities
Illustration of Minnesota with landmarks.

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!

Plan your visit
A family at Split Rock Lighthouse historic site.

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.

Join today