Minnesota Military Museum

The Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum is the primary endeavor of the Military Historical Society of Minnesota (MHSM). This non-profit educational organization is dedicated to preserving and elucidating Minnesota's rich military history. The museum is open to the public throughout the year and is a testament to the state's military past, offering a unique insight into the various aspects of military life and history.

Location of the Museum

The Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum is situated within the confines of Camp Ripley, a state-owned military training center that spans over 53,000 acres. The museum is just a few blocks inside the main gate of the camp, which is located on the Mississippi River, just north of Little Falls in central Minnesota. This location not only provides a unique setting for the museum but also adds to the authenticity of the military history it represents.

Collection at the Museum

The Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum is the largest and most comprehensive repository in Minnesota for military artifacts and records. The museum's collection boasts nearly 35,000 artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, equipment, insignia and flags, training aids, and personal items. These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the past and offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore Minnesota's military history in a hands-on way.

Unique Experiences at the Museum

Visitors to the Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum have the opportunity to step inside a rare 40 & 8 boxcar that was used to transport American troops and horses in France during World War I. Additionally, they can inspect one of Camp Ripley's ubiquitous “tin hut” and latrine exhibits, which are outfitted as they would have been around 1965. These immersive experiences provide a unique perspective on military life and history.