Volunteer Spotlight: Kim Benson-Johnson
Kim has been an integral part of the MNHS community for the past 30 years! Kim first started volunteering at the Library prior to the opening of the History Center in 1992. Her parents instilled in her the love of history. Kim’s father worked on the reconstruction of Fort Snelling. On family trips, her parents insisted on having one day of learning where they would go to the local history museum, further igniting her interest.
Her mother suggested she volunteer at the History Center when it opened, so Kim gave it a shot. This has led to 33 years of volunteering at MNHS across a wide variety of sites but one place has had her heart from the start.
Kim has spent years volunteering at the Gale Family Library. Kim said at first the role was different from her daily job, and that kept her coming back. She keeps coming back now because of the people she has met. She’s appreciated all the people she’s met, whether they were visitors, other volunteers, or staff members.
Kim’s advice to other volunteers is to find something you’re interested in and passionate about. One of Kim's interests is in genealogy, which is the study of family origins and history. She has taken several classes and has done her own personal research, even finding a book that traces her family lineage all the way back to her grandfather! Kim’s love of history and learning is woven throughout her life, and we’re excited to learn and grow with her for many years to come.