north-star

North Star Circle

History matters. Our stories matter. Join Us.

North Star Circle members are a distinguished group of supporters who serve as Minnesota history’s strongest advocates. Their generous contribution of at least $1,200 annually helps support our network of 26 historic sites and museums, collections, publications, and wide-ranging education programming.

In recognition of their leadership, North Star Circle members receive special benefits including invitations to exclusive North Star Circle events, behind-the-scenes opportunities, and free admission to all MNHS historic sites and museums.

For questions or additional information about the North Star Circle, email Sam Cooper or call 651-259-3057.

Fully tax-deductible donations of all sizes to the Minnesota Historical Society’s Annual Fund help MNHS provide ongoing support for programs that help students make connections between the past and the present.

MNHS programs inspire young people to examine, engage and understand, better preparing them to be discerning, well-informed leaders. 

Last year:

  • 27,000 students at 193 schools participated in National History Day in Minnesota
  • 223,133 field trip visitors
  • Northern Lights student textbook served 60,600 students, or 83% of Minnesota's 6th graders
  • Gale Family Library at the History Center welcomed 22,200 researchers
  • 2,425 items were added to MNHS collections

And all of these programs depend on consistent, Annual Fund support from donors like you. 

 

 

North Star Circle donor list

The Minnesota Historical Society gratefully acknowledges the donors in the North Star Circle for their leadership support from July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024. 

Full donor list (PDF)

North Star Circle benefits

  • Free admission at historic sites and museums, including guests
  • Invitations to special North Star Circle events
  • Invitations to conversation-with-a-curator events
  • Invitations to behind-the-scenes collections tours
  • Discounts on all special events, including tours, family activities, lectures, classes, and more
  • Discounts at MNHS stores, cafes, and on parking at the Minnesota History Center
  • Recognition in the Annual Report and on donor panels located at the Minnesota History Center and Mill City Museum
  • North Star Circle membership is tax deductible

Select the level that is right for you

Patron

$1,200 +
  • North Star Circle benefits

Leader

$2,500 +
  • North Star Circle benefits
  • Advance notice and early ticketing for  select popular MNHS events

Partner

$5,000 +
  • North Star Circle benefits
  • Advance notice and early ticketing for select popular MNHS events
  • Free parking at the Minnesota History Center

Founder

$10,000 +
  • North Star Circle benefits
  • Advance notice and early ticketing for select popular MNHS events
  • Free parking at the Minnesota History Center
  • Concierge consultation with MNHS expert, e.g. genealogist, curator, conservator, site manager

Guarantor

$25,000 +
  • North Star Circle benefits
  • Advance notice and early ticketing for select popular MNHS events
  • Free parking at the Minnesota History Center
  • Concierge consultation with MNHS expert, e.g. genealogist, curator, conservator, site manager
  • VIP access and exclusive membership experiences at historic sites

Director's Circle

$50,000 +
  • North Star Circle benefits
  • Advance notice and early ticketing for select popular MNHS events
  • Free parking at the Minnesota History Center
  • Concierge consultation with MNHS expert, e.g. genealogist, curator, conservator, site manager
  • VIP access and exclusive membership experiences at historic sites
  • Special recognition and customized services tailored to your interests