History museums in Minnesota

The Minnesota State Capitol, located in Saint Paul, serves as the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate of Minnesota. This significant building is not only a hub of political activity but also a symbol of the state's history and governance. Visitors can explore the grand architecture and gain insights into the workings of the state's legislative bodies.

The Purcell-Cutts House, originally known as the Edna S. Purcell house, is a significant example of Prairie School architecture located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The house was designed in 1913 by the architectural firm of Purcell, Feick and Elmslie for the architect William Purcell and his family. The design of the house is notable for its long, narrow floor plan that breaks away from traditional Victorian concepts about room divisions.

The American Swedish Institute (ASI) is a museum and cultural center located in the Phillips West neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The institute is dedicated to preserving and studying the historic role that Sweden and Swedish Americans have played in US culture and history. It serves as a gathering place for people to share experiences around themes of culture, migration, the environment, and the arts, all informed by enduring links to Sweden.

The Alexander Ramsey House, located in Saint Paul, the capital of Minnesota, is a historic house museum. It offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the Ramsey family who were prominent figures in Minnesota's history. The house is a significant landmark, not only for its architectural beauty but also for its historical significance.

The Lake Superior Railroad Museum (LSRM) is a railway museum situated in Duluth, Minnesota. It was inaugurated in 1973 and has since grown to become one of the largest railway museums in the country. The museum is housed in the historic Duluth Union Depot and features a vast collection of Minnesota's railway vehicles, along with interactive exhibits about the region's history.

Split Rock Lighthouse is a historic landmark situated near Silver Bay on the north shore of Lake Superior, in Minnesota, United States. It is a central building of the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and has been a part of the National Register of Historic Places since June 23, 1969. The lighthouse was built in response to the significant loss of ships during the famous Mataafa Storm of 1905, during which 29 ships were lost on Lake Superior.

In 1878, the mill complex was destroyed by an explosion that killed 18 people. Despite this tragic event, the mill was later rebuilt and continued to operate until 1965. Today, the Mill City Museum stands as a testament to the resilience and industrial spirit of the city.

The Two Harbors Light, located in Two Harbors, Minnesota, is the oldest operating lighthouse in the state. It overlooks the beautiful Lake Superior's Agate Bay, providing a picturesque view for visitors. The lighthouse has been in operation since 1892, making it a significant historical landmark in the region.

The James J. Hill House, a significant historical landmark, was built by railroad magnate James J. Hill and completed in 1891. It is conveniently located near the eastern end of Summit Avenue, close to the Cathedral of Saint Paul. This location offers a commanding view of downtown St. Paul and the Mississippi River area, making it a highly desirable location for tourists.

The St. Louis County Depot, also known as The Depot, is a historic railroad station located in Duluth, Minnesota. It was constructed in 1892 and at its peak, it served seven different railroads. This makes it a significant part of the region's transportation history.

Hill-Annex Mine State Park is a significant location in Minnesota, United States. The park is dedicated to interpreting the open-pit mining heritage of the Mesabi Range. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and impact of mining in the region.

The Hubbard House, located in Mankato, Minnesota, is a historic site that was built in 1871. It was the home of Rensselaer D. Hubbard, a successful businessman of the time. The house stands as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the era, making it a point of interest for those interested in history and architecture.

Today, the Lower Sioux Agency is a historic site managed by the Lower Sioux Community in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society. In February 2021, ownership of half of the site was transferred from the historical society to the Lower Sioux Community. This partnership and ownership transfer demonstrate the ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the history of the Lower Sioux Indian Reservation.

Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, located on the outskirts of Little Falls, Minnesota, spans 569 acres. The park was once the farm of Congressman Charles August Lindbergh and his son, the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh. This historical connection adds a unique layer of interest to the park's natural beauty.

The LeDuc Historic Estate, also known as the William G. LeDuc House, is a significant historical site located at 1629 Vermillion Street in Hastings, Minnesota, United States. This estate is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, indicating its national significance in American history.

Forestville Mystery Cave State Park is a unique destination in Minnesota. It is home to the restored 19th-century village of Forestville and the state's longest cave, Mystery Cave. The Minnesota Historical Society operates the village as a historic site, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. The Mystery Cave, open to the public, offers an exciting underground adventure.

The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum is an aviation museum situated in Granite Falls, Minnesota. It is a destination for those interested in World War II aviation history, offering a unique opportunity to explore and learn about this significant period.

The Ames–Florida–Stork House is a historic house museum located in Rockford, Minnesota, United States, situated on the Crow River. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural and historical significance of the house. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history, the people who lived there, and the role it played in the local community.

The Gideon H. Pond House, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a historic site that forms part of the Pond-Dakota Mission Park. This park also encompasses the Oak Grove Mission site, which was active from 1843 to 1852, a cemetery, and the remnants of the Pond family farm and orchards. This site offers a glimpse into the history of the area and the lives of the Pond family.

The Landmark Center in St. Paul, which was completed in 1902, has a rich history as it originally served as the United States Post Office, Courthouse, and Custom House for the state of Minnesota. This gives visitors a unique insight into the building's past and its importance in the state's history.

The Dr. William W. Mayo House, a significant historical site, is situated at 118 North Main Street in Le Sueur, Minnesota, United States. This house is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), indicating its national significance and historical value.

Pickwick Mill, located in the unincorporated community of Pickwick, Minnesota, near the city of Winona, is a historic gristmill. Constructed in the mid-1850s, it now operates as a milling museum, offering a glimpse into the past. The mill's history and its transformation into a museum make it a significant point of interest for visitors.

The Alexander Faribault House, located in Faribault, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1853 by fur trader Alexander Faribault, the house is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. This style, popular in the mid-19th century, is characterized by its symmetrical shape, columned porticoes, and heavy cornices. The house stands as a testament to Faribault's influence and affluence during his time.

The Hormel Historic Home, also known as the Cook-Hormel House or simply The Hormel Home, is a significant historical site in Austin, Minnesota. This Italianate style home with a Classical Revival facade was built in 1871 and was recognized for its historical significance by being added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The home offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of the time and the history of the Hormel family.

The Dr. George R. Christie House, located in Long Prairie, Minnesota, United States, is a historic house museum. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the life and times of Dr. George R. Christie and his family.

The Somali Museum of Minnesota boasts a collection of over 1000 traditional nomadic artifacts from Somalia. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Somali people. In addition to the artifact collection, the museum also offers educational programming about Somali culture, arts events, and cross-cultural activities. These programs aim to promote understanding and appreciation of Somali culture among visitors.

The E. St. Julien Cox House, located in St. Peter, Minnesota, is a unique example of Carpenter Gothic-style architecture. This style is characterized by its ornate wooden elements that mimic the intricate designs typically found in stone Gothic architecture. The house stands as a testament to the architectural tastes of the late 19th century.

The Minnesota Museum of American Art, also known as "The M", is situated in the Historic Pioneer Endicott building in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The museum is home to over 5,000 artworks that span from the 19th century to the present day. These pieces showcase the unique voice of American artists throughout the years.

The Minnesota Discovery Center is a comprehensive facility that showcases the history and future of northeastern Minnesota. It includes a museum, an entertainment venue, a research center and library, and a park. These diverse offerings provide a wide range of experiences for visitors, from exploring historical exhibits to enjoying outdoor activities in the park.

The American Museum of Asmat Art, located at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a gallery dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of the Asmat people of southwestern Papua, Indonesia. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Asmat people, right in the heart of the United States.

The Kashubian Cultural Institute & Polish Museum, located in Winona, Minnesota, is a cultural and historical museum. It was established in 1979 with the aim of preserving the Polish and Kashubian heritage of the region. The museum is a testament to the rich cultural history of the area and offers a unique insight into the lives and traditions of the Polish and Kashubian communities.

The Hay Lake School, a historic schoolhouse located in Scandia, Minnesota, was in operation from 1896 to 1963. Today, it is managed by the Washington County Historical Society and serves as a museum. It shares its location with the 1868 Johannes Erickson House, creating a unique historical complex for visitors to explore.

The Andrew John Volstead House, located in Granite Falls, Minnesota, is a historic site that was once the home of ten-term United States Congressman Andrew Volstead (1860–1947). This house is not just a building, but a piece of American history, as it was the residence of a significant political figure who played a crucial role in the country's legislative history.

The Charles H. Burwell House, located in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that was constructed in 1883. This house offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and history of the late 19th century.

The Henderson Community Building, also known as the Old Sibley County Courthouse, is a historic government building located in Henderson, Minnesota. This building holds significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the area.

The Holz Family Farmstead, located in Eagan, Minnesota, is a significant part of the city's history. Established in the 1870s, the farmstead was a thriving 80-acre family farm that produced livestock, crops, fruits, and vegetables. It provides a glimpse into the agricultural past of the region.

The Fillebrown House is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, signifying its importance in American history. The house is a rare example of American Picturesque architecture, a style that was popular in the late 19th century when White Bear Lake was a bustling resort town. Visitors can appreciate the unique architectural style and the historical context in which it was built.

The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, located in Duluth, Minnesota, is a museum operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. This museum offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region, with exhibits demonstrating the history and operations of upper Great Lakes commercial shipping.

Glensheen, the Historic Congdon Estate, is a significant historic house museum located in Duluth, Minnesota. The mansion, which spans 20,000 square feet, is managed by the University of Minnesota Duluth. This grand estate offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the opulence and architectural prowess of the early 20th century.

Edna G is a historic steam tugboat that once sailed the Great Lakes and is now preserved as a museum ship in Two Harbors. Visitors can explore this unique piece of maritime history and learn about its significant role in the region's iron ore and taconite transportation.

The Greyhound Bus Museum, situated in Hibbing, Minnesota, marks the location where Carl Wickman and Andrew "Bus Andy" Anderson initiated their first bus service in 1914. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the early days of bus transportation in the United States.

The Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children, located in Owatonna, Minnesota, served as a residential and educational facility for wards of the state from 1886 to 1945. The school was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1885 to provide safe transitional housing for orphaned, abandoned, and abused children. Over its 60-year operation, the school was home to a total of 10,635 children.

The Spam Museum, located in Austin, Minnesota, is a unique institution dedicated to the history and impact of Spam, a brand of canned precooked meat products. The museum is admission-free, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. It provides an in-depth look into the Hormel Foods Corporation, the creators of Spam, and the product's place in world culture.

The Twin City Model Railroad Museum, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a unique destination for those interested in railroads. The museum boasts a large collection of model railroads, offering visitors a chance to explore the intricate details of these miniature masterpieces.

The Comstock House, located in Moorhead, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that was constructed for Solomon Comstock and his family between 1882 and 1883. The architectural style of the house is a blend of Queen Anne and Eastlake, making it a unique representation of the period's design aesthetics.

The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center, commonly referred to as the Hjemkomst Center, is a museum located in Moorhead, Minnesota. The museum first opened its doors to the public in 1985 and has since been a significant cultural and historical hub in the region.

The Minnesota History Center, located near downtown Saint Paul, serves as the headquarters of the Minnesota Historical Society. This museum and library is recognized as one of Minnesota's finest public buildings, offering a rich insight into the state's history and culture.

The Minnesota Transportation Museum (MTM) is a significant institution located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The museum is dedicated to the preservation of local transportation history, with a particular focus on railroads, buses, and streetcars. This commitment to historical preservation provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and understand the evolution of transportation in the region.

The Minnesota Music Hall of Fame is situated at the intersection of First North Street and Broadway in New Ulm, Minnesota, United States. The museum is housed in a building that was formerly a public library. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique setting for the museum.

The August Schell Brewing Company, located in New Ulm, Minnesota, is a historic brewery founded in 1860 by German immigrants August Schell and Jacob Bernhardt. This establishment has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century, making it the second oldest family-run brewery in the United States.

The Forest History Center offers a variety of learning experiences about forests, the logging industry, and forest conservation. These experiences include exhibits and films, demonstrations, a living history lumber camp, an original 1934 fire tower, and nature trails. These diverse offerings allow visitors to engage with the history and conservation of forests in multiple ways.

The interior of the Crow Wing Historic County Courthouse is as impressive as its exterior. It features polished marble floors and walls, and a rotunda surrounded by a balcony. The dome of the courthouse is adorned with a colored glass skylight and a fine brass electrolier, adding to the overall grandeur of the building.

The Grand Army of the Republic Hall, located in Litchfield, Minnesota, is a significant historical site. Constructed in 1885, it is one of only four remaining GAR halls in the state of Minnesota. This hall stands as a testament to the history and heritage of the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Dorothy Louise Molter, also known as Knife Lake Dorothy or the Root Beer Lady, lived for 56 years on Knife Lake in the Boundary Waters area of northern Minnesota. She gained national prominence due to her unique lifestyle and the root beer she made and sold to thousands of passing canoeists in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) near Ely, Minnesota. Her life and her place in the public eye were significantly influenced by the evolution of the area where she lived into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Cahill School, a one-room schoolhouse, is currently situated in Tupa Park, near Minnesota State Highway 100 and Eden Avenue in Edina, Minnesota, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique glimpse into the educational history of the region.

The John Dwan Office Building, situated at 201 Waterfront Drive in Two Harbors, Minnesota, serves as a historical landmark and is currently a museum dedicated to 3M. This building holds significant historical value as it was the location where the incorporation papers for the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, now known as 3M, were drawn up in 1902.

The Spring Valley Methodist Episcopal Church, also known as the First Methodist Church and Spring Valley Community Historical Society Museum, is a historic church building situated at 221 W. Courtland Street in Spring Valley, Minnesota. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past.

Dive into Freeborn County history! The HCFC is located at 1031 Bridge Avenue, Albert Lea, MN and includes a museum, an extensive research library, and a historical village. The museum houses a gallery of rotating exhibits, a museum store, the research library and archives, and an interactive pl

Pipestone National Monument is situated in the southwestern region of Minnesota. It is conveniently accessible via several highways, including U.S. Route 75, Minnesota State Highway 23, and Minnesota State Highway 30. This makes it an easy destination to reach for those traveling by road.

The Gibbs Farm, located in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, is a museum that was originally the farmstead of Heman Gibbs and Jane DeBow. The farm was first established in 1854 and has since been transformed into a museum that provides a glimpse into the lives of the pioneers who lived there.

The August F. Poehler House, located in Henderson, Minnesota, is a historic site that dates back to 1884. It was originally built for August and Emilie Poehler, who were shop owners, and their six children. This house provides a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of a successful entrepreneurial family in the late 19th century.

The Kandiyohi County Historical Society (KCHS) is a local history museum located in Willmar, Minnesota. Established in 1897, the museum's mission is to discover, preserve, and share the story of Kandiyohi County and its people.

The Moose Lake station, located in Moose Lake, Minnesota, is a historic depot constructed in 1907 by the Soo Line Railroad. This building stands as a testament to the rich history of the area and the significant role railroads played in its development. Visitors to the museum can learn about the history of the railroad and its impact on the local community.

The Crosby station, now known as the Soo Line Depot Museum, is a historic former train station located in Crosby, Minnesota. Established in 1910, the station has a rich history that reflects the growth and development of the region. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Jeffers Petroglyphs site, located in southwestern Minnesota, is a significant historical site featuring pre-contact Native American petroglyphs. These petroglyphs are pecked into the rock of the Red Rock Ridge, a Sioux quartzite outcrop that extends for 23 miles. The site is surrounded by virgin prairie and is a testament to the rich cultural history of the region.

The Cross River Heritage Center, located in Schroeder, Minnesota, is a museum that is managed by the Schroeder Area Historical Society. The center is dedicated to collecting and interpreting the history of the local area and the greater North Shore of Lake Superior. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

The Willard Bunnell House, located in Homer, Minnesota, is a historic house museum. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and history of the region. The house is a significant landmark, having been listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

The Cokato Museum & Gust Akerlund Studio is a local history museum located in Cokato, Minnesota. The museum's focus is on the history of the city of Cokato and the surrounding townships of southwest Wright County. This provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's past.

The Grand Portage National Monument is a significant historical site located in a boreal forest on the north shore of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. The monument was established with the aim of preserving a vital center of the fur trade, which played a crucial role in the region's history. Additionally, the monument also serves as a testament to the rich heritage of the local Ojibwe culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Firemen's Hall, located at 206 W. Mill St. in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, is a historic building that was constructed in 1888. It has been recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. This building is a testament to the town's history and resilience, having been built after two devastating fires in the town's business district.

The Finn Creek Open Air Museum is a Finnish-American open-air museum situated about six miles southeast of New York Mills, Minnesota. This museum is a testament to the early Finnish immigrants' lifestyles and experiences in the New York Mills area, providing a unique insight into their history and culture.

The United States Hockey Hall of Fame, located in Eveleth, a suburb of Minneapolis in the state of Minnesota, was established in 1973. This institution was founded to honor the players, coaches, referees, and builders who have made significant contributions to the history of ice hockey in the United States.

The Folsom House, located at 272 West Government Street in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, is a historic house museum. This location offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of Minnesota's rich history.

The Pavek Museum, located in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, is home to one of the world's most significant collections of vintage radio and television equipment. This collection provides a unique insight into the history and evolution of broadcasting technology, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of communication.

Harkin's General Store stands as a testament to the once thriving town of West Newton in Nicollet County, Minnesota. As the only remaining structure of the town, it offers a unique glimpse into the past and the history of the area. Visitors can explore the store and get a sense of what life was like in the late 19th century.

The John Harrington Stevens House holds a significant place in the history of Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was the first authorized house to be built on the west bank of the Mississippi River in the area that would later become the city of Minneapolis. This historic structure provides a glimpse into the early settlement and development of the city.

The Minnesota Transportation Museum (MTM) is a unique institution located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It operates several heritage transportation sites across Minnesota and even one in Wisconsin. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of local transportation, including railroads, buses, and streetcars. It's a great place for tourists interested in transportation history to explore.

The Hennepin History Museum is a unique institution that focuses on the history, people, and communities of Hennepin County, Minnesota. It provides a comprehensive look into the past of this region, offering visitors a chance to understand the area's history and its impact on the present day.

Today, the former Redwood County Poor Farm building is home to the Redwood County Museum. Operated by the Redwood County Historical Society, the museum features 30 rooms filled with local history and cultural exhibits. Visitors can explore period rooms such as a living room, dining room, kitchen, general store, military room, and doctor's office, each offering a unique glimpse into the past.

Discover history firsthand at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museums, founded by David and Marsha Karpeles. Our museums across the United States preserve and showcase a diverse range of original manuscripts and historical documents, from handwritten letters and historical treaties to scientific pap

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.

Operated by the Minnesota Historical Society, the Oliver Kelley Farm is recognized as a historic site of national significance. In 1964, it was declared a National Historic Landmark and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm is recognized for its importance in the themes of agriculture and social history, making it a valuable destination for those interested in these aspects of American history.