History Advocates Discuss Preserving the Past at the Minnesota State Capitol

The Minnesota Historical Society’s 20th annual History Matters Day spotlights the importance of protecting our state’s history

For immediate release

Dated: March 2, 2026

Contacts: Nick Jungheim, 651-259-3060, nick.jungheim@mnhs.org or Allison Ortiz, 651-259-3051, allison.ortiz@mnhs.org

Location: Minnesota History Center

ST. PAUL, Minn. (March 2, 2026) – The Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) invites advocates to speak up for history on March 5 during History Matters Day at the Capitol. The 20th annual event connects history fans, local history organizations, and passionate supporters with elected officials for meaningful conversations about the importance of funding history projects.

On History Matters Day at the Capitol, participants can share personal stories with state legislators about how funding for history initiatives has enriched communities across Minnesota. This includes discussing the positive impacts of Legacy-funded history projects.

Since its inception in 1849, MNHS has been committed to preserving stories, legacies, and historic sites across the state. Continued support from the state is needed to carry on the work of creating powerful engagement with history and how it shapes, inspires, and informs the present. During the 2026 legislative session, MNHS is asking state legislators to provide funding for the Preservation and Access To History (PATH) project. This initiative will go toward designing and constructing facilities improvements for aging collections care and securing items in proper environmental conditions.

As part of the event, MNHS will have a display showcasing several special collections items during the History Matters Day at the Capitol. Highlights will include historic baking recipes and hockey memorabilia.

What:
History Matters Day at the Capitol
When:
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Opening remarks at 9 am
Information fair from 9:30 am–noon
Where:
Minnesota State Capitol
Room G19

The day will begin in State Capitol Room G19 with MNHS Director and CEO Kent Whitworth and Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations David Kelliher giving opening remarks at 9 am. An information fair will immediately follow in G19 and continue throughout the morning.

Supporters can learn more and get involved with History Matters Day at the Capitol 2026 at mnhs.org/historymatters. Those who plan on participating can register to attend in person at the Capitol or virtually via Zoom.

About the Minnesota Historical Society
The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves, and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.