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Our Collections encompass more than 150,000 artifacts, detailing county history from its prehistory to the present. Special exhibits reflect the wide variety of items in our collections.
The museum's permanent exhibits draw from thousands of years of local and regional history and present it in a lively, modern format. Geology, natural history, archaeology, Native American history, military, immigration, business and industry, sports and leisure, clothing, and agriculture are represented through displays, photographs, paintings, artifacts and interactive presentations.
A wide and varied offering of programs, tours, lectures, films and events are offered regularly for visitors and members of all ages. From guest speakers and demonstrations of traditional crafts to holiday events and film series, our Society offers an exciting line-up of events all year long. In addition, we offer educational materials and programs to schools and organizations.
The fascinating people and places of our county's colorful history come alive in the pages of our quarterly newsletter, Goodhue County Historical News. Member benefits include a subscription to this enlightening publication.
Genealogists, scholars, and students discover a wealth of resources in our library. In addition to detailed records, historical photographs, and publications, our computerized database speeds searches and keeps accurate inventory of thousands of pieces of information.
You'll find educational toys, reproductions, and gifts relating to county history in our store, which highlights a large collection of books by local authors.
Important dates in Society history:
1869
"Old Settlers Association" was
founded - the first county historical society in Minnesota.
Rev. J. W. Hancock was elected
president. The purpose of the organization was
"preserving the memories of old
times and keeping up the fond relations of the old-time
boys." (Goodhue County Republican)
1905
The Association was reorganized
and added "collecting and preserving records and
artifacts" to the previously stated
purpose of "awakening and maintaining interest in the
early history of Goodhue County."
1906
The Association was given space
in the new Carnegie-Lawther Public Library in Red
Wing. It consisted of one cabinet
to display artifacts along with basement storage.
1927
The name was changed to Goodhue
County Historical Society
1932
The first museum was opened in
the county courthouse. A two-day "white elephant" sale
was held to raise funds.
1938
The Society hired its first paid
employee - a curator.
1954
The Society incorporated.
1963
When county government needed
more space in the courthouse, the Society relocated
within the building. This prompted
a search for a more permanent site for the museum.
1966
County commissioners allocated
funds through 1/2 mill levy for 1967. This helped fund
the Society and the position of
curator.
1967
The Society started its Oral History
Program in an effort to record the personal stories of
county residents.
1968
The Society moved into the former
Baptist Old People's Home. Work began
on preparing exhbit space and
the museum opened on November 1.
1983
Planning began for a museum expansion
project. After in-depth planning, the Society was
able to receive the required funding
through county appropriations (1987-1991), a one-time
mill levy from the state legislature,
and Society fund-raising.
1989
The Society moved out of
the old building in preparation for museum expansion.
1991
The groundbreaking ceremony takes
place on April 16 for museum expansion project.
1993
The Grand Opening of the expanded
Historical Museum takes place
1995
Museum hires first paid director.