The program will include everything from fashion, prohibition, flappers, and politics of the time, etc. The younger Cox girls made history on the cusp of the changing roles for women.
John Fritsche, reenactor and period rifle competition shooter, will demonstrate how 1860s armament was assembled, cleaned and prepared for use. Period firearms and related memorabilia will be on display.
Pegeen Rozeske, the Shoe Lady and a Historical Reenactor, is a journeyman shoemaker. Pegeen travels through time as well as across the miles to demonstrate what making footwear entailed when this country was just beginning.
Jo Ann Huss will return to the Kiesling House to demonstrate her craft of spinning wool!
Brian Haines, Executive Director of the McLeod County Historical Society and author, will focus his presentation on the US-Dakota War, what led to the war, how the war affected those involved and the aftermath of the war.
The tour guides will tell stories of Dakota War events that took place at the respective sites included in the tour.
Members of the New Ulm Battery will interact with the audience and share the history of the organization and talk about the cannon which will be on display.
At the E. St. Julien Cox House, visitors can experience a unique blend of history and hospitality as they journey back to Victorian times. Built in 1871 by Eugene and Mariah Cox, this family-centric Carpenter Gothic home invites guests to explore stories left behind by its remarkable female inhabitants who went on to make local […]
Demonstrations will include making sauerkraut and sausage by Kathleen Backer. You'll have an opportunity to assist with the processing the food!
FREE fun for all on the Hubbard House lawn. Win prizes! Meet a bevy of colorful characters from the past! The Cherry Sisters believe laughter is the best medicine and they are back to entertain you with their antics. Violet McNeal will reveal the secrets of the Medicine Show trade. Three all new and different […]
Come one and all to our 50th Annual Show! We are excited to be featuring tractors of every make that have been to our shows in the past! Over 100 acres of activities for the whole family including a special scavenger hunt with a treat at the end for all who finish the hunt! We […]
Join the Blue Earth County Historical Society for a unique historic walking tour of the 400 and 500 blocks of Mankato’s South Front Street. But this isn’t any ordinary walking tour, the twist includes stops at Blue Bricks, Ummie’s and The Square Deal; each with its own musical past and stories to tell. In addition […]
Join us as agricultural historian T.J. Malaskee delves into the long-forgotten history of America’s first fraternity of farmers, the Grange. The Grange was a radical post-Civil War Era movement that pushed for progressive measures to heal the nation through agriculture, education, equality, and social interaction as the United States saw growing tension between western rural […]
Bryce Stenzel, local author and historian, presents his latest book And The Band Played On. This book looks back at the 100 years of the Mankato Community Band. Stenzel will have copies available for purchase and sign that day. After the program, Sarah and the Houligans will play some of the music featured in the […]
The Blue Earth County History Center is hosting a special History After Hours. This exciting evening of live music, delicious food and entertaining History Center exhibitions is in conjunction with the PreserveMN 2023 conference being held in Mankato September 27-29. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating History Center exhibits including the new […]
Learn about veteran Robert E. Kaping of New Ulm, who lost his life aboard the U.S.S. Drexler off the shores of Okinawa in May of 1945.
Join the Blue Earth County Historical Society signature event, "A Night at The Speakeasy," hosted by Neubau Holdings. This highly anticipated event sells out every year and promises to be an evening filled with fun, entertainment, and philanthropy. Step back in time to the era of Prohibition, flappers, gangsters and Jazz music. With its unique […]
The Minnesota Valley Civil War Round Table meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the New Ulm Public Library and each presenter shares insights on historical events and people connected to the Civil War.
As the vibrant colors of fall surround us, October presents the perfect opportunity for families to come together and celebrate their heritage while creating lasting memories. "October Family Day at BECHS" offers free admission to the History Center Museum, allowing families to immerse themselves in the rich history of Blue Earth County. Explore captivating exhibits […]
In 1918, not considered citizens of the U.S., Choctaw members of the U.S. American Expeditionary Forces were asked to use their native language as a powerful tool against the German Forces in World War I, setting a precedent for code talking as an effective military weapon and establishing them as America’s original Code Talkers.60 min., […]
The Blue Earth County Historical Society is proud to present an Author Talk by Andrew Wood, who will delve into the captivating biography of his father, Dr. Earl H. Wood, a pioneer in aviation and medical science. Join us for an engaging exploration of Dr. Wood's life and legacy. This event is free and open […]
Come and enjoy this presentation on mammoths, mastodons and more!
Step into the world of flappers and bootleggers at the Holiday Bootlegger’s Ball at the Waseca County History Center. The event will feature live jazz from the High School Jazz Band, a dance troupe, Terrascyn dance, teaching moves from the roaring 20s, and a costume contest. Mocktails and Hors de eouvre provided. The password to […]
Start your holiday season with the Blue Earth County Historical Society’s annual Christmas at the Historic R.D. Hubbard House. Enjoy a lively cast of characters in this entertaining self-guided experience as you join the Hubbard Family’s Christmas and help solve the mystery of a missing mitten. The Hubbard House is beautifully adorned in Victorian Christmas […]
Dean Klinkenberg will share personal stories from those who witnessed and survived the New Madrid fault earthquakes of 1811-1812 and their aftermath, as well as subsequent disasters along the Mississippi.
Enjoy a guided holiday tour and partake in a scavenger hunt through the house.
The Minnesota Valley Civil War Round Table meets each month and shares insights on historical events and people connected to the Civil War.
The "Collections" gallery, presented by the Bend of the River Photography Club, is a captivating exploration into the art of collecting, invites visitors to ponder and wonder about the significance of the items we collect. “Not every collection is museum worthy, but every collection tells you something about the person who collected it. Ponder and […]
The Minnesota Valley Civil War Round Table meets every month and each presenter shares insights on historical events and people connected to the Civil War.
Come and learn about the French explorer, Joseph Nicollet, and his journeys to explore the region between the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, all shared by Minnesota author, Jason Lee Willis.
"The 20s - They Were the Cat's Meow", will simulate a speakeasy right in the Waseca County Historical Society Museum. Mannequins dressed in period clothing will be displayed dancing the night away at the speakeasy. The 20s clothing is on loan from Vagabond Village in Mankato, and the Little Theatre of Owatonna's Coletta Collection. Also, […]
Join us for a program titled “Blue Earth County’s Main Streets: Mankato.” This program is free and open to the public. Main Streets are the central hub of small-town life, serving as the focal point for commerce, social gatherings, and community engagement. BECHS Collections Manager Shelley will showcase Mankato’s Front Street during this month’s program. […]
Join us at the History Center when local author Jason Lee Willis talks about his book Tall Tales of Le Sueur. Admission is $10/adults, $5/children 5-17, Free for BECHS Members. In the book, Willis brings to life Pierre Charles Le Sueur through some of the tall tales that have been written about him throughout history. […]
The Minnesota Valley Civil War Round Table meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the New Ulm Public Library and each presenter shares insights on historical events and people connected to the Civil War.
Take a step back in time and shop the items used in households during the American Fur Trade Era!
Main Streets are the central hub of small-town life, serving as the focal point for commerce, social gatherings, and community engagement. From Maple River Heritage Inc, Coleen and Sandi will showcase Mapleton’s Main Street during this month’s program. This program is happening in correlation with our latest exhibit Blue Earth County’s Main Streets, which is located […]
Learn how to create arrowheads with special tools and a bit about Mayan culture in the process.
Join us as each presenter shares insights on historical events and people connected to the Civil War.
War is Hell - Total War in '64 Presentations, costumed interpreters, Civil War exhibits, panel discussion, Civil War era music, books and authors, lunch, and more. Special Guest Speaker: Gary Blessman Advance Registration REGISTER BY MAIL OR ONLINE! $30 Adult (includes lunch) $20 Student (18 & under, includes lunch) "Friends" members may deduct $5 from […]
Due to the pending snowstorm, this event has been postponed. As soon as a new date has been chosen, we will update the event here. The NCHS annual meeting coincides with the opening day of the exhibition, More Than a Headline: A Closer Look at the Art and Life of Camilla Hall. The meeting's featured […]
We invite you to join us in celebrating 100 years of memories at Minnesota State University, Mankato’s former lower campus, now Old Main Village, a senior living community.
The Organization of Latin Americas Students (OLAS) is pleased to present its annual Latinx Night. This year, the theme, LATINdependence, pays homage to the rich history of Latin America, from its struggles for independence to its modern-day global influence. Throughout the night, you'll enjoy a variety of professional and student performances, showcasing the diverse traditions […]
Bring the whole family to explore the History Center Museum and learn more about Blue Earth County’s past.
The Waseca County Historical Society will have an exhibit on display from February 27- April 16th, entitled, "Barbie and Me", featuring several local people's collections of the famous doll. Guests can take a walk down memory lane with us and reminisce about childhood play. Also, an immersive photo op set will be available for people […]
The Minnesota Valley Civil War Round Table meets each month at the New Ulm Public Library to share insights on historical events and people connected to the Civil War.
Join us for our monthly history chat! We're excited to explore Nicollet County's rich history with you.During our informal hangouts, we'll discuss the people, places, events, and more that have shaped our community. We encourage you to share any memories or stories you may have and to engage in lively conversations with other history enthusiasts. […]
We are facing a critical moment in the history of the Fairmont Opera House, and we need your help to ensure its future. Join us for exclusive tours* of the ongoing Capital Repair Project on April 26th and 27th and witness firsthand the urgent need for funding to complete essential repairs.** Reservations are required. *Tour […]
The Nicollet County Historical Society presents a new exhibit about early 20th-century artist Adelaide Magner which features artwork from throughout her lifetime. Adelaide Magner was born in Nicollet in 1872 and, from an early age, showed a talent for art. After high school, she went on to study at the Minneapolis School of Fine Arts, […]
Camilla Hall's name is most associated with the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), a militant group she joined in California in 1974. However, this exhibit delves beyond the headlines to explore Camilla's life as a daughter, friend, sister, and artist. The opening date of March 24 would have been Camilla Hall's 79th birthday, and 2024 also […]
