Historic Adventures

Visit any or all of MNHS’s 26 historic sites and museums and see our state, or your hometown, in a whole new light. Amazing adventures await!

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.

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.
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    Get out and explore MNHS historic sites and museums around Minnesota.
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    Fife players in historic costume.
    View all MNHS programs and events.
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    Leather drawstring bag decorated with floral beadwork.
    Search a wealth of records and images from MNHS collections.
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    Delve into essential research tools, materials, and services.
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    Three teenagers sit at a table looking at papers and writing notes.
    Learn about field trips, the Northern Lights textbook, primary sources, and more.
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    MNHS preserves and protects the objects, documents, and places that make Minnesota home.
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    Following my spirit home book.
    MNHS Press is a leading publisher of books on the history and culture of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
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    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

Collections online

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

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. 

MNopedia

Charles A. Lindbergh (1902–1974)

Charles A. Lindbergh, a native of Little Falls, became a world-famous aviator after completing the first nonstop, solo transatlantic flight in May 1927. Although his flying feats made him an American cultural hero in the 1920s, his links to Nazism, support for eugenics, and publicly unacknowledged children in Germany tarnished his legacy in the decades that followed.

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.

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

Ramsey After Dark

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Alexander Ramsey House

Explore the hidden secrets of Victorian society in this evening tour. Topics change monthly. Tours last 75 minutes and are…

Child’s Eye View of History

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Historic Fort Snelling

Bring the whole family to Historic Fort Snelling for our new tour focused on family and children.

Photography & Art at the Rock

Featuring Natalija Walbridge

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Split Rock Lighthouse

Photography & Art at the Rock is a monthly exhibit in the lobby of the Split Rock Lighthouse Visitor Center that showcases…

"SOVEREIGN Suite" Film Screening and Conversation with PaviElle French

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Minnesota History Center

Join vocalist and interdisciplinary artist, PaviElle French in a screening of and conversation about her film, SOVEREIGN Suite…

Nooks and Crannies Tour

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James J. Hill House

Get a behind-the-scenes look at areas of the James J. Hill House that are not featured on the standard house tour.

What Happened in Alabama? Ending Cycles of Trauma in Black America

This event begins at 7 pm on Wednesday, May 22.

Minnesota History Center

North Star Journey Live will explore the topic of intergenerational trauma in the Black community with journalist and author…

Minnesota History Center Free Thursday Nights in May Sponsored by Donaldson Company

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Minnesota History Center

Enjoy free admission and free parking at the Minnesota History Center every Thursday night in May from 4:00-8:00pm, courtesy…

North Shore Community Night

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Split Rock Lighthouse

Come spend an evening with the community at Split Rock Lighthouse!

Author Event: "How the Birds Got Their Songs" with Travis Zimmerman and Sam Zimmerman / Zhaawanoogiizhik

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Split Rock Lighthouse

Join author Travis Zimmerman and illustrator Sam Zimmerman / Zhaawanoogiizhik during North Shore Community Night.

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.