Split Rock Lighthouse

Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial Beacon Lighting

Join us as we livestream our Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial Beacon Lighting event!

Minnesota History Center

Girlhood (It's complicated)

See how girls have spoken up, challenged expectations, and been on the front lines of social change throughout US history. 

Mill City Museum

The Art of Disability Justice Now

View a disability community-centered exhibition that is curated, organized, and supported by artists, activists, and community organizers to serve as a snapshot of what disability justice is now in the Twin Cities.

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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    View all MNHS programs and events.
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    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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    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

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.

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

MEA Days: Create Your Fort Experience

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Historic Fort Snelling

You'll be provided a map and your very own "passport" to guide you throughout the 22 acre site as you pick and…

Harvest Days

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Oliver Kelley Farm

Experience the final days of harvest on the historic Kelley farmstead.

History Hijinx: MEA Week

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Minnesota History Center

Join us for MEA week at the Minnesota History Center.

Free Thursday Nights at the History Center

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Minnesota History Center

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

Girlhood (It's complicated) Book Club

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Minnesota History Center

Join us for a series of book clubs featuring Minnesota authors who write books about girls.

Shadows & Spirits of the State Capitol

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Minnesota State Capitol

Join a one-hour guided tour of the restored State Capitol through the shadowy rotunda, hallways, and chambers.

The Creature of Snake Hollow - Mystery at the Fur Post

Doors open at 6:30 pm

Snake River Fur Post

It’s time to discover WHAT creeps about in the shadow of the woods.

Keepers Tour

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Split Rock Lighthouse

Experience Split Rock Lighthouse like the keepers and their families did.

Family Fun Day

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Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post

Bring the whole family out to the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post to enjoy family friendly activities.

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.