Protecting the Future by Preserving the Past

The Minnesota Historical Society encourages support for history at 19th annual History Matters DayStay up to date about all things MinnesotaÂ History.

For immediate release

Dated: February 25, 2025

Contacts:

Contacts

Nick Jungheim, 651-259-3060,Â nick.jungheim@mnhs.org or Allison Ortiz, 651-259-3051,Â allison.ortiz@mnhs.orgÂ

ST. PAUL, Minn (February 25, 2025) â TheÂ Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) is asking supporters to speak up for history on February 27 duringÂ History Matters Day at the Capitol. The annual event will showcase the value that funding history initiatives brings to the people of Minnesota. The event brings together local history organizations and history fans from across the state.

MNHS is winding down a year-long commemoration of its 175th anniversary. Since its inception in 1849, MNHS has been committed to preserving stories, legacies, and historic sites across the state. Continued support from the state is needed to carry on the work of creating powerful engagement with history and how it shapes, inspires, and informs the present.

During the 2025 legislative session, MNHS and partner history advocates are asking the state to provide funding for local history grants, historic sites asset preservation, and improvements for historic structures.

As a celebration of the organizationâs 175th anniversary, MNHS will have several rare collections items on display during the History Matters Day at the Capitol. Highlights will include Sigurd Olson's "Open Horizons" memoirâa specially-printed artist book with stunning bindingâa photograph titled "First African American Troops to Leave St Paul..." taken during World War I, and a baseball bat signed by Hall of Famer and Minnesota Twins player Kirby Puckett.

What:
History Matters Day at the Capitol
When:
Thursday, February 27, 2025
Opening remarks at 9 am
Information fair from 9:30 amânoon
Where:
Minnesota State Capitol
Opening remarks in LâEtoile du Nord Vault Room B15
Information fair in Rotunda - First Floor

The day will begin in the LâEtoile du Nord Vault Room B15 with MNHS Director and CEO Kent Whitworth and Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations David Kelliher giving opening remarks at 9 am which will also be streamed via Zoom. An information fair will immediately follow in the Rotunda, first floor, and continue throughout the morning.

Supporters can learn more and get involved with History Matters Day at the Capitol 2025 atÂ mnhs.org/historymatters. Those who plan on participating canÂ register to attend in person at the Capitol or virtually via Zoom.

About the Minnesota Historical Society
TheÂ Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves, and tells the story of Minnesotaâs past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our stateâs stories, and connects people with history.

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Protecting the Future by Preserving the Past