MN250
The Minnesota Historical Society is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation by highlighting Minnesota’s significant contributions. And with historical sites located across the state, MNHS offers great ways to explore American history without having to travel across the country, because in Minnesota…American history lives here.
Statewide events
MNHS is providing administrative support for the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250. The Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 exists to help coordinate commemorations undertaken by public and private organizations and individuals to ensure that all Minnesotans have opportunities to learn about our complex and inspiring past. Visit the Minnesota America 250 website to view the statewide events calendar or submit an event.
MN250 road trips
Hit the road during our nation’s 250th birthday and travel through Minnesota’s all-American stories. From the industries that changed the nation to the civic contributions of generations of Minnesotans, see how American history has unfolded in our own backyard. Complete any itinerary and earn a limited-edition MN250 pin (while supplies last).
Events
History Forum 250: Revisiting the Revolution
Join celebrated authors and award-winning historians for a thought-provoking series on the history and legacy of the American Revolution during our nation’s 250th anniversary. From the stories of little-known Patriots to the global impacts of the Revolution, revisit this world-changing event with an exploration of the people and ideas that continue to shape our nation and beyond.
MNHS Independence Day Celebrations
Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day at MNHS historic sites. More information will be available closer to the 4th of July. Historic sites with Independence Day celebrations include Historic Fort Snelling and Oliver Kelley Farm.
Exhibits
Spotlight on Minnesota’s Constitutions
May 6 - July 5, 2026
In celebration of Statehood Day, the Spotlight Gallery at the Minnesota History Center will display the two handwritten copies (both the Republican and Democratic versions) of Minnesota’s state constitution. Why two copies? Both were written in August 1857. Because Republican and Democratic delegates to the 1857 constitutional convention insisted on them.
Many Voices, Many Stories, One Place Additions
New objects will be on display at Historic Fort Snelling in the MVMSOP exhibit, including artifacts from the First Minnesota Volunteer Regiment. The First Minnesota Volunteer Regiment was the first body of troops raised by the state for Civil War service, and it was among the first regiments of any state offered for national service.
American Revolution Experience at Historic Fort Snelling
June 20 - July 2, 2026
Created through a collaboration between the American Battlefield Trust and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the pop-up exhibition connects modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation. Come see this banner exhibit at the Plank Visitor Center at Historic Fort Snelling.
More Minnesota history resources
MNopedia
Learn more about Minnesota history and what Minnesota has contributed to the nation on MNopedia. MNopedia is a free, curated, and authoritative resource about our state. All of our articles are prepared by historians, consulting experts, professional writers, and others vetted by MNHS.
MNHS Press
Explore the curated collection of MNHS Press books that highlight important Minnesotan stories. The MNHS Press publishes adult nonfiction titles, cookbooks, and children’s picture books that reflect the history and culture of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
Sharing the Spirit of America Declaration of Independence Reading
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