A | B | C | D | E | F | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Task Number | Task Name | Task Type | Location | Text | URLs for More Information | |
2 | 1 | Alexander Ramsey House | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Alexander Ramsey House at 265 S Exchange St in St. Paul & take a photo with the house. This was the home of MN's 1st territorial governor, 2nd state governor, US Senator, Sec. of War, and co-founder of MNHS. Ramsey was a controversial figure during his lifetime & has been ever since. Follow the links to learn more. If you want to see the inside of this exquisitely preserved Victorian home, plan ahead. It is only open the 1st Sat of each month. Ticket info in link. | https://www.mnhs.org/ramseyhouse https://libguides.mnhs.org/ramsey/ov | |
3 | 2 | Charles Lindbergh House & Museum | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Scan the QR at the Charles Lindbergh House & Museum in Little Falls near the 1916 Saxon Six car. Charles, his mother Evangeline, uncle Charles, & dog Wahgoosh drove to California in a 1916 Saxon. With a top speed of 25mph, it took 40 days! This car was restored through a partnership between MNHS and Fort Ripley. Interested in conserving your own cool artifacts? Check out the video from Ask a Conservator day in the link! | https://www.mnhs.org/lindbergh, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_op3eDJS3So | |
4 | 3 | Charles Lindbergh House & Museum | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Snap a selfie with your favorite object, image, or fun fact in the Charles Lindbergh Museum in Little Falls, then head into either of the theaters to learn more. Interested in more video content on Lindbergh and his complex life? Check out the online videos at the link and learn about Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the kidnapping of Charles Junior, Lindbergh's involvement with isolationist movements, and his work in environmentalism. | https://www.mnhs.org/lindbergh/learn/videos | |
5 | 4 | Forest History Center | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Forest History Center in Grand Rapids & take a photo of yourself with logging equipment in our re-created logging camp. In 1905, when lumber production peaked in MN, loggers were felling as much as 2 billion board-feet annually—enough to circle the earth with a 14-foot wide boardwalk! However, by the 1930s, most lumber companies had closed or moved west because there weren't enough trees left to cut in MN. Learn more about the Center & the 1937 Timber Worker strike in the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/foresthistory , https://www.mnopedia.org/event/timber-worker-strikes-1937 | |
6 | 5 | Forest History Center | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Forest History Center in Grand Rapids & scan the QR code at the log cabin in the Visitor Center. In the 19th & early 20th centuries, logging dominated Minnesota's northern forests. Over time, economies shifted & today, many Minnesotans use these forests as places for recreation & relaxation. Now, the smell of pine often reminds people of camping, fishing, hiking, paddling, or spending time at the cabin. Learn more about the history of "up North" tourism at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/foresthistory , https://www.mnopedia.org/tourism-minnesota-1835-1940 | |
7 | 6 | Historic Forestville | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit Historic Forestville near Preston & take a photo with the Livestock & Horse Barn (opposite the brick store & home). It was one of the largest buildings in Fillmore County when it was built in 1894. In 1860, Forestville had 150+ residents & boasted 20 houses, a school, 2 sawmills, a gristmill, a blacksmith shop, a store, 2 hotels, a distillery, & a cabinetry shop. Only what you see remains. Visit to learn what happened. FYI: cellular service is unreliable here, so upload photos later. | https://www.mnhs.org/forestville | |
8 | 7 | Historic Forestville | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit Historic Forestville near Preston and take a photo inside the 1857 general store, which looks nearly like it did over a century ago! The store was the last business open in the once-promising town of Forestville, but closed its doors in 1910. MNHS acquired the buildings in 1978. You'll need to visit during opening hours to get a peek inside, so check the link for visitor info. FYI: cellular service is unreliable here, so upload photos later. | https://www.mnhs.org/forestville | |
9 | 8 | Historic Fort Snelling | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Scan the QR code at Historic Fort Snelling near the WW1-era ambulance in the exhibit "Many Voices, Many Stories, One Place." During WWI, Fort Snelling was designated General Hospital 29. Beginning in a single base building, the hospital came to embrace the entire military post and had 1,200 beds by the time it closed in 1919. The first major duty of the hospital was caring for victims of the 1918 influenza pandemic. Learn more military history at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/fortsnelling/learn/military-history | |
10 | 9 | Historic Fort Snelling | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo at Historic Fort Snelling at the Klas Overlook above the Mississippi River. This confluence of the Mississippi & Minnesota rivers is Bdote, a place many Dakota people consider a sacred place of creation. Historic Fort Snelling sits at Bdote & near many locations of historic & contemporary Dakota significance, such as Taku Wakaŋ Tipi (Morgan's Mound), Mni Owe Sni (Coldwater Spring), & Oheyawahi (Pilot Knob). Learn more Dakota history & geography at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/fortsnelling, https://shop.mnhs.org/products/mni-sota-makoce | |
11 | 10 | James J. Hill House | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the James J. Hill House on Summit Ave in St. Paul & scan the QR code next to the pipe organ. Yes, this house has a pipe organ! Built for railroad titan James J. Hill, this 36,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion was once the largest private residence in the state. Nicknamed the "Empire Builder," Hill & his railroads made St. Paul one of the nation's busiest rail hubs, transforming both Minnesota & the nation. Learn more at the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/hillhouse , https://www.mnopedia.org/person/hill-james-j-1838-1916 | |
12 | 11 | Jeffers Petroglyphs | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit Jeffers Petroglyphs at 27160 County Road 2 near Comfrey & take a photo with some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie in the state (but stay on trails). This diverse ecosystem has been home to Native Americans for millenia, including the Ioway, Otoe, Cheyenne, & Dakota. In 1966, MNHS purchased the site with the hope of providing opportunities to appreciate the history of the carvings, the prairie, & the people who call this place home. More about prairie plants at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/jefferspetroglyphs , https://shop.mnhs.org/products/edible-medicinal-wild-plants-midwest | |
13 | 12 | Jeffers Petroglyphs | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit Jeffers Petroglyphs at 27160 County Road 2 near Comfrey and take a photo with the Sioux quartzite outcroppings that are home to more than 5000 Native American carvings. The carvings were added to this rock between 5000 BCE to 1750 CE. That means some of them are 7000 years old! Check open hours before visiting & visit in evening hours for the best views. More info in links. | https://www.mnhs.org/jefferspetroglyphs , https://www.mnopedia.org/place/jeffers-petroglyphs | |
14 | 13 | Mill City Museum | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit Mill City Museum in downtown Minneapolis & scan the QR code at the exhibit "What Makes Minneapolis, Minneapolis?" Watch videos of current residents reflecting on the city’s past, present, & future, and contribute your own thoughts about Minneapolis. Hear more voices from the past in our extensive Oral History collections by visiting the link and selecting "Oral History" under Record Type. | https://www.mnhs.org/millcity https://www.mnhs.org/search/collections | |
15 | 14 | Mill City Museum | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit Mill City Museum in downtown Minneapolis & take a photo of yourself on the museum's 9th floor observation deck, overlooking Owamniyomni (St. Anthony Falls). This is the only major waterfall on the Mississippi river, also known as Haha Wakpa. A sacred gathering place for the Dakota, its power was harnessed in the 19th century by industrialists for the sawmills & flour mills that made Minneapolis the "Flour Milling Capital of the World." More info at the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/millcity https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/minneapolis-flour-milling-industry-during-world-war-i | |
16 | 15 | Mille Lacs Indian Museum & Trading Post | GPS Check-in | MNHS Site | MNHS Check-in at the Mille Lacs Trading Post in Onamia, home to Minnesota's largest selection of traditional & contemporary handcrafted, authentic Native American art & crafts. Over 250 Native artists are represented here! Opened by Harry & Jeanette Ayer as a store for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe in 1918, it became a valued asset to the Mille Lacs Band over the years. The Ayers donated their store & collection to MNHS in 1959. Learn more at the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/millelacs , https://www.mnopedia.org/place/mille-lacs-indian-trading-post | |
17 | 16 | Mille Lacs Indian Museum & Trading Post | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Mille Lacs Indian Museum in Onamia and scan the QR code in the Four Seasons room. You'll need to have a guide take you through the room, which features life-size dioramas that illustrate traditional activities of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe throughout the seasons: spring maple syrup camp, fishing and berry gathering in summer, fall wild ricing, winter hunting and trapping, and more. For more info & a virtual tour of the Four Seasons room, check the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/millelacs , https://youtu.be/Q_MuN-sfcdY?feature=shared | |
18 | 17 | Minnesota History Center | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Minnesota History Center and scan the QR code next to the photo of Marcenia Lyle "Toni" Stone in Then, Now, Wow! Stone was the first woman to play on an American major-level professional baseball team when she joined the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro Leagues in 1953. She grew up in the Rondo neighborhood in St. Paul and by 16, was playing on the Twin Cities Colored Giants. Today, you can play on Toni Stone Field at the Dunning Sports Complex near her childhood home in Rondo. | https://www.mnhs.org/historycenter, https://www.mnopedia.org/person/stone-marcenia-lyle-toni-1921-1996 | |
19 | 18 | Minnesota History Center | Trivia | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Minnesota History Center & the exhibit "Reframing Our Stories" to answer this question. "Reframing" showcases photographs of Minnesota's Native communities taken by journalists who didn't fully understand the stories they captured. After extensive research with Minnesota's contemporary Native communities, the photographs have been given new context & meaning, helping the images tell a much richer (and more accurate) story. Find the photo of the softball player. What is her name? | https://www.mnhs.org/historycenter, https://www.mnhs.org/historycenter/activities/museum/our-home/reframing-our-stories | |
20 | 19 | Minnesota State Capitol | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the State Capitol and take a photo with part of the "People's House" that you feel a connection with. It could be an aspect of Cass Gilbert's Beaux-Arts architecture, one of the battle flags displayed in the rotunda, the repeated North Star motifs, or one of the 24 monuments & memorials that dot the campus. Visit the Capitol Information & Tour Center (Room 126) to get a free tour from MNHS staff and see even more! Note: the Quadriga is another task, so no double-dipping! Info in link. | https://www.mnhs.org/capitol https://mn.gov/admin/assets/Capitol%20complex%20Monuments%20memorials%200524_tcm36-298531.pdf | |
21 | 20 | Minnesota State Capitol | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the State Capitol and take a photo with the iconic Quadriga, the golden 4-horse chariot atop the Capitol roof. Officially titled "The Progress of the State," it shows earth, wind, fire, & water (the horses) along with agriculture & industry (the women) propelling prosperity forward (the charioteer). Pro tip: take a free guided tour to get an up close and personal view! Visit the Capitol Information & Tour Center (Room 126) to sign up! More info in links. | https://www.mnhs.org/capitol , https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/quadriga-progress-state | |
22 | 21 | Oliver Kelley Farm | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Oliver Kelley Farm in Elk River and get a photo of yourself at the Historic Farmstead water pump. Just as water helps our farm flourish, an organization founded by Kelley in 1867 helped farmers flourish. It was the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry, better known as the Grange. Through advocacy, education, & networking, the Grange helped farmers & communities nationwide (and still does) through thousands of local chapters. Learn more at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/kelleyfarm , https://www.mnopedia.org/group/state-grange-minnesota | |
23 | 22 | Oliver Kelley Farm | Trivia | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the Oliver Kelley Farm in Elk River and while you're there, check out the field garden at the Historic Farmstead to answer this trivia question. What root crop here can grow to weigh almost 20 lbs? Your answer needs to be specific, so our gardener can give you a hint if you need a helping hand. Want to dig deeper? Learn more about this crop’s significance to the state and info about the Kelley Farm at the links. | https://www.mnopedia.org/group/american-crystal-sugar-company , https://www.mnhs.org/kelleyfarm | |
24 | 23 | Snake River Fur Post | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo with your favorite head covering at the London Hat Shop in the Snake River Fur Post visitor center. The North American fur trade was powered by a love of hats, specifically beaver felt top hats. In fact, people loved beaver felt hats so much that the beaver almost went extinct! Note: the Fur Post has limited hours, so plan ahead! Check the link for info. | https://www.mnhs.org/furpost | |
25 | 24 | Snake River Fur Post | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a tour of the Snake River Fur Post & look for a QR code to scan (check the trade shop). Today's post is a reconstruction of an 1804 post excavated in 1963-66. In 1968, the MN Legislature funded rebuilding the post guided by the archaeological research and it opened to the public in 1970. Our Archaeology Dept. continues to be an important part of MNHS' work across the state, learn more at the link! Note: the Fur Post has limited hours, so plan ahead! Check the link for info. | https://www.mnhs.org/furpost , https://www.mnhs.org/library/learn/collections/archaeology | |
26 | 25 | Split Rock Lighthouse | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a picture of yourself with the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse in the background. Opened in 1910, the lighthouse was built in response to a 1905 November gale that wrecked nearly 30 ships, including the Madeira just north of the lighthouse off Gold Rock Point. Visit the exhibit in the visitor center to see the Madeira's wheel, expertly preserved by our conservators after decades under water. For more on Lake Superior shipwrecks, follow the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/splitrock/learn/shipwrecks | |
27 | 26 | Split Rock Lighthouse | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Visit the exhibit at Split Rock Lighthouse & scan the QR code next to the new replica of the lighthouse's 650 lb. Fresnel lens. This enormous lens first magnified a kerosene lamp & later, a 1000 watt electric bulb. The light was visible for up to 22 miles! To see the real lens, climb up the lighthouse. To see it lit, come for the Edmund Fitzgerald Beacon Lighting Ceremony on Nov 10. More info in links. | https://www.mnhs.org/splitrock , https://www.mnhs.org/splitrock/activities/beacon-lighting | |
28 | 27 | Birch Coulee Battlefield | GPS Check-in | MNHS Site | MNHS Check-in at Birch Coulee Battlefield at the junction of Renville Co. Hwys 2 & 18, 3 miles north of Morton. It was once the site of a hard-fought battle in the US-Dakota War of 1862, lasting 36 hours & resulting in devastating casualties. Today, the site is a peaceful prairie. Visit this free MNHS site & follow the self-guided trail to learn about the battle from the perspectives of US Army Capt. Joseph Anderson & Mdewakanton soldier Wamditanka (Big Eagle). Check the link for more info. | https://www.mnhs.org/birchcoulee | |
29 | 28 | Comstock House | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo of yourself at the Comstock House at 506 Eighth St S in Moorhead. The 1883 house was gifted to MNHS in 1965 and is operated by our partner, the Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County. It was home to Solomon Comstock, a lawyer, railroad planner, politician, and city booster. Visit during open hours on Friday or Saturday to get a tour or read more at the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/comstock https://www.mnopedia.org/structure/solomon-g-comstock-house | |
30 | 29 | Folsom House | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo of yourself in front of the Folsom House in Taylors Falls, one of MNHS' historic sites. Finished in 1855, this New England Greek Revival was the home of WHC Folsom, a lumber baron originally from Maine. The surrounding Angel's Hill neighborhood is a slice of 19th century New England, including the oldest extant schoolhouse in the state (1852). Visit on the weekend & enjoy a tour of the home from our partners: Taylors Falls Historical Society. Info in the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/folsomhouse , https://www.mnopedia.org/structure/folsom-house-taylors-falls | |
31 | 30 | Fort Ridgely | GPS Check-in | MNHS Site | MNHS Check-in at Fort Ridgely in Fort Ridgely State Park, off MN-4, 7 miles south of Fairfax. The 1853 Fort has been a police station, a Civil War training ground, and the site of a siege during the US-Dakota War. Take a self-guided tour of the ruins of 8 buildings that show how the fort looked during the Civil War & US-Dakota War. Walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who stayed here & catch a glimpse of the tumultuous history of 1800s Minnesota. Note: state park vehicle permit is required. | https://www.mnhs.org/fortridgely | |
32 | 31 | Harkin Store | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo at Harkin Store on County Hwy 21, 9 miles NW of New Ulm. This 1870 store was opened by Scottish immigrant Alexander Harkin and was purchased by MNHS in 1973. It is a prime example of the kind of community hub that existed throughout the state in the late 19th & early 20th centuries. Currently, the inside of Harkin Store is closed to visitors, but you can see a similar general store at Historic Forestville in SE Minnesota. | https://www.mnhs.org/harkinstore | |
33 | 32 | Lac Qui Parle Mission | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo of yourself visiting Lac Qui Parle Mission, 8 miles NW of Montevideo on County Hwy 13, off US-59. This was the leading station of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions’ work among Dakota people between 1835 and 1854. Lac qui Parle was a multicultural community, where Dakota people and European Americans cooperated, but also experienced deep divides and competing goals during a tumultuous period of change. Learn more about this complex history at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/lacquiparle , https://www.mnopedia.org/structure/lac-qui-parle-mission | |
34 | 33 | Lower Sioux Agency | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo at the Lower Sioux Agency at 32469 Redwood Co. Hwy 2 near Morton. Managed by the Lower Sioux Indian Community, the Agency was built by the US in 1853 as an administrative center for the newly created Dakota reservation. Nine years later, in 1862, the US-Dakota War broke out here after the US failed to fulfill its treaty obligations. The war brought devastation to both sides during and after the war, a legacy still felt today. Read more at the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/lowersioux , https://www.mnopedia.org/place/lower-sioux-agency | |
35 | 34 | Marine Mill | Photo/Video | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a photo with the historic marker identifying Minnesota's first commercial sawmill on Judd St. in Marine on St. Croix. Beginning in 1839, the Marine Mill produce millions of boardfeet of lumber during the boom of Minnesota's timber industry. The old mill site became part of MNHS in 1972 and today is managed by the City of Marine on St. Croix as part of the larger Marine on St. Croix Historic District. More info in the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/marinemill , https://www.mnopedia.org/structure/marine-mill-marine-st-croix | |
36 | 35 | Minnehaha Depot | GPS Check-in | MNHS Site | MNHS Check-in at the Minnehaha Depot, built in 1875 and famous for its intricate “gingerbread” canopy. It was one of three stops on the first railroad line built out of Minneapolis. Visit on Sunday afternoon and you can go inside thanks to volunteers at the Minnesota Transportation Museum! | https://www.mnhs.org/minnehahadepot | |
37 | 36 | Sibley Historic Site | QR Code | MNHS Site | MNHS Take a tour at the Sibley Historic Site in Mendota & scan the QR code you'll find on the tour. Established by fur trader and politician Henry Hastings Sibley, it became the state's 1st designated historic site in 1910 when the Daughters of the American Revolution began restoring the site. Today, it's home to the oldest private residence still standing in MN, but did you know it was once home to a Lion? Keep on alert to learn about this Lion and scan the QR code you'll find alongside it. | https://www.mnhs.org/sibley https://www.mnopedia.org/structure/sibley-historic-site-mendota | |
38 | 37 | Traverse des Sioux | GPS Check-in | MNHS Site | MNHS Check-in at the Traverse des Sioux historic site at 1851 N Minnesota Avenue in St. Peter. For thousands of years, this shallow river crossing was a crossroads & meeting place for Native Americans. In 1851, it witnessed one of the most consequential events in Minnesota history: the signing of the treaty between the Dakota and the US that led to the 1862 US-Dakota War. Take a self-guided tour or visit the nearby Treaty History Center from our friends at Nicollet County Historical Society. | https://www.mnhs.org/traversedessioux, https://www.mnopedia.org/event/treaty-traverse-des-sioux-1851 | |
39 | 38 | W.W. Mayo House | GPS Check-in | MNHS Site | MNHS Check-in at the WW Mayo House at 118 N Main St in Le Sueur. Built in 1859 by Dr. WW Mayo, this house was home to 2 of Minnesota's most influential families: the Mayo family of the Mayo Clinic, and the Cosgrove family of the Green Giant Company. Visit on weekends to tour the inside of the house, thanks to our partners at the Ney Nature Center. | https://www.mnhs.org/mayohouse | |
40 | 39 | 3M Products | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with a 3M product, making sure to get their logo in your pic. Founded in 1902 in Two Harbors, the company formerly known as the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company started as a failed mining venture but has since introduced products known around the world like Post-it Notes & Scotch Tape. You likely have something by 3M in your home! The original company office in Two Harbors is now a museum operated by the Lake County Historical Society. More info in links. | https://www.mnopedia.org/group/3m-minnesota-mining-and-manufacturing-company , https://lakecountyhistoricalsociety.org/3m-museum/ | |
41 | 40 | Bundt Pan | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Raid your cupboard or visit your local kitchen shop and get a photo with a Minnesota original—the Bundt Pan! Created by H. David Dalquist, founder of the Nordic Ware Company, the Bundt pan is rooted in Minnesota’s Jewish immigrant history. To learn the story, click the link to our MNopedia article about the pan. When it first came on the market, it was niche item, but in 1966, the pan was featured in the 2nd place entry for the Pillsbury Bake Off. Demand soared and the rest is history! | https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/bundt-pan | |
42 | 41 | Civil War Memorial/Monument | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo of yourself with a Civil War memorial. On April 12, 1861—the day the War began—Gov. Alexander Ramsey promised President Lincoln a regiment of 1,000 volunteer soldiers. These were the first troops offered for the Union army. During the battle of Gettysburg, the 1st Minnesota Regiment played a key role in securing a Union victory, capturing the flag of the 28th Virginia Regiment in the battle. Minnesota has kept it since! Read more & see the flag at the links. | https://www.mnhs.org/search/collections/record/34df762d-1248-4368-9476-59f2fa2ae85e, https://www.mnopedia.org/group/first-minnesota-volunteer-infantry-regiment | |
43 | 42 | County Courthouses/Archives | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Snap a photo of yourself at one of Minnesota's county courthouses (present or former). Did you know that MNHS is home to the Minnesota State Archives? The State Archives collection includes photographs, microfilm, moving images, recorded audio, and terabytes of digital content, as well as over 70,000 cubic feet of paper documents! For over a century, this collection has included county and local government records. You can learn more about the State Archives at the link. | https://www.mnhs.org/preservation/state-archives | |
44 | 43 | County Fair | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Before heading to the "Great Minnesota Get Together", snap a photo of yourself at a county fair! Despite having only 87 counties, Minnesota has 90 different county fairs across the state that run throughout the summer leading up to the state fair. County fair participants showcase their skills at the local level before going on to compete at the big stage in St. Paul. Be sure to visit MNHS at the State Fair later this summer! A complete list of all county fairs can be found at the link. | https://www.mfcf.com/events | |
45 | 44 | County historical orgs | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Did you know that every single Minnesota county has a historical society? That's 87 county historical societies working to connect Minnesotans with their shared history! Visit one of the 87 county historical societies and get a picture of yourself there. MNHS provides a range of support services for these important organizations, including resources, workshops, and grant programs. You can find the list of county historical societies at the included link. | https://www.mnhs.org/preservation/localhistory/mho/chsclo, https://www.mnhs.org/preservation/localhistory | |
46 | 45 | Local history museums | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Beyond MNHS and our 87 county historical societies, there are dozens of local history organizations across the state. Take a photo of yourself visiting one of the many local organizations listed on our website (follow the link). From the Herreid Military Museum in Luverne to the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center at the end of the Gunflint Trail, there's a local history organization for everyone. | https://www.mnhs.org/preservation/localhistory/mho/chsclo, https://www.mnhs.org/preservation/localhistory | |
47 | 46 | Field Trips/6th Grade Pass | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Did you know over 110,000 students visit MNHS museums and historic sites every year through field trips? For this task, follow the 1st link and answer this question: what MNHS site would a field trip visit in Pine City? Field trips are not the only way students can visit our sites. We also offer the 6th Grade Minnesota History Pass, which gives all 6th graders in the state FREE access to our sites for an entire year! Follow the 2nd link for details. | https://www.mnhs.org/fieldtrips https://www.mnhs.org/historypass | |
48 | 47 | Giant Bird Statues | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo of yourself with one of Minnesota's many giant bird statues. Minnesota is on one of the great migratory flyways in North America, making it a top state for birding. But some larger-than-life birds never migrate. All year round you can visit the Prairie Chicken in Rothsay, Belgrade's Crow, the new Goldfinch in Bloomington, or one of the many others in our state! | ||
49 | 48 | Giant fish statues | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Minnesotans love to fish, so pack your tackle box and cast a line for one of our state’s many giant fish statues! Get a picture of you reeling in one of these monsters. Will you go for Wally Walleye in Garrison or the 65 ft. muskie in Bena? There’s also Preston’s trout and the bluegill in Orr—and many more! | ||
50 | 49 | Gray Duck | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a picture with a reference to the classic Minnesota game "Duck, Duck, Gray Duck" & show us whether you approve or not. This might be the most unique thing about Minnesota, the only state in the country to not call it "Duck, Duck, Goose." Why do Minnesotans use Gray Duck instead of Goose? The reason is murky. Maybe it originated with Swedish immigrants, but the evidence is sparse, making it a great research topic for the next generation of Minnesota historians! | ||
51 | 50 | History Day | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY MNHS has run National History Day MN for over 25 years. In that time, more than 500,000 6-12 grade students have participated. Wow! Students choose a topic that relates to an annual theme, research that topic, and present their research in one of five presentation categories, learning valuable research and analysis skills and competing at school, regional, state, and national competitions. This year's theme was "Turning Points in History." What is your favorite turning point in History? | https://www.mnhs.org/historyday | |
52 | 51 | Hot Dishes | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo of you eating or making your favorite hot dish! Did you know that the first official recipe named "Hot Dish" is believed to be in a cookbook from Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato? The original recipe was first printed in 1930 and included hamburger, macaroni, & canned peas. Since then, hot dishes have taken Minnesota by storm, with tons of new recipes to try. Check out "Hot Dish Heaven" from MNHS Press to try one, info in link. | https://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/03/12/mankato-cookbook-gets-credit-for-first-hot-dish-recipe, https://shop.mnhs.org/products/hot-dish-heaven | |
53 | 52 | Ice Rinks | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Head to your local rink to get a photo of yourself on the ice. Minnesota has more ice rinks per capita than any other state by a wide margin. The oldest indoor ice rink still operating in Minnesota is the Eveleth Hippodrome, opened Jan 1, 1922, while the NSC Super Rink in Blaine is one of the largest ice arena complexes in the world with 8 sheets! From speed skater Amy Peterson to the Miracle on Ice, Minnesotans know how to skate. Follow the links for more history on ice from MNHS. | https://shop.mnhs.org/products/tourney-time-1 , https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/strauss-ice-skates | |
54 | 53 | Juneteenth | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Juneteenth was made the newest state holiday in 2023. Learn more at our Juneteenth website linked here and share something you learned that surprised you! The holiday commemorates the day slavery was finally outlawed in Texas on June 19, 1865 & celebrates the end of slavery nationwide. It may be our newest state holiday, but different Emancipation Day celebrations have been taking place in Minnesota since at least the 1870s, including Juneteenth-specific celebrations since the 1970s. | https://www.mnhs.org/juneteenth | |
55 | 54 | Lady Slipper | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Snap a photo with our state flower, the Showy Lady's Slipper (real, fake, or whatever you can find). This pink and white native orchid blooms in late June and early July in marshy, damp wooded areas. In 1902, the lady slipper was adopted as our state flower, formally being protected by law in 1925. This wildflower is very rare, so let it be if you see one in the wild! Follow the link for a list of the 40+ wild orchids that grow in our state. | https://www.sos.state.mn.us/about-minnesota/state-symbols/state-flower-pink-ladys-slipper/ , https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/mcbs/mn_orchid_list.pdf | |
56 | 55 | Loon | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with a loon, real or otherwise! The common loon became Minnesota's official state bird in 1961, but has been a part of Minnesota summers for generations. Remember to do your part to keep Minnesota prime loon habitat for many years to come. Follow the links to see how you can be part of the DNR's Loon Restoration Project, or buy the MNHS Press children's book "Secrets of the Loon." | https://shop.mnhs.org/products/secrets-loon?_pos=3&_sid=5af41f544&_ss=r, https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/nongame/monitoring-efforts.html | |
57 | 56 | Minnesota Music | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with something from your favorite Minnesota musician. Prince, Hüsker Dü, the Andrews Sisters, Bob Dylan, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Atmosphere—the list goes on and on! From the music of Minnesota's Indigenous peoples, to the chansons of the voyageurs, to the many musical traditions brought by immigrant groups over generations—Minnesota's musical heritage is deep and wide. Click the links to see some musical gems from our collection. | https://www.mnhs.org/search/collections/record/93b19f58-2654-48d9-9460-083e171a244a , https://www.mnhs.org/search/collections/record/820f3e16-ffef-42d8-b0c5-630b45b884a9 | |
58 | 57 | Minnesota Sports | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo of yourself cheering on your favorite Minnesota sports team! Sports have been a part of Minnesota life for centuries, from lacrosse games played by the Dakota and Ojibwe in the 1600s to the brand new Professional Women's Hockey League team in 2024. So, get your scarves up, break out the Homer Hankies, tune up the Gjallarhorn, let your hockey hair fly—whatever you need to do to show some Minnesota sports pride! Read more sports history at the links. | https://www.mnopedia.org/gophers-vikings-and-saints-highlights-history-minnesota-sports, https://shop.mnhs.org/collections/browse-mnhs-press-titles/sports-and-recreation | |
59 | 58 | MN Bike Trails | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Snap a photo of yourself enjoying one of our state's many bike trails. From state trails like the Root River or Paul Bunyan trail, to singletrack at Cuyuna Lakes, to the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis, there's a trail for everyone. Find maps & resources from the Bicycle Alliance of MN at the link and always ride safely. If you want biking & history, check out our bike tours at Historic Fort Snelling! | https://www.bikemn.org/ride-minnesota/maps-and-resources/#statebicyclemaps, https://www.mnhs.org/tours | |
60 | 59 | MN Colleges & Universities | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with the name or logo of your favorite MN college or university! MNHS supports college students through internships, the Native American Undergraduate Museum Fellowship, and a partnership with the Heritage Studies & Public History grad program at the University of Minnesota. Whether you're a Gopher, Bulldog, Maverick, Auggie, Gustie, Johnnie, Tommie, Piper, Golden Bear, Mustang, Voyageur, Blue Devil, Scot, Husky, Cougar, Cobber, or something else, show some pride! | https://www.mnhs.org/internships/fellows/native-american , https://www.mnhs.org/internships/college | |
61 | 60 | MN Digital Newspaper Hub | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY The Minnesota Digital Newspaper Hub is a searchable website from MNHS that makes millions of pages of Minnesota newspapers available online. From the first newspaper published in the Minnesota Territory in 1849 to newspapers in 12 different languages, it is wealth of history at your fingertips. Explore the Hub at the link and answer this question: there are 2 titles in the Newspaper Hub that were published in 1850, but 1 of them used a language other than English. What language was it? | https://newspapers.mnhs.org/ | |
62 | 61 | MN Geology Marker | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Get a picture of yourself rocking out to learning about rocks at one of the 60 roadside markers put up by the Geological Society of Minnesota! This organization has been installing markers about geological history since 1949. Click the links to find a marker near you and to learn about the oldest thing you'll likely find in Minnesota: Morton Gneiss. This Minnesota wonder is about 3.5 billion years old, one of the oldest rocks on the planet! | https://roadmarker.geosocmn.org/Road_MarkerBy_County https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/morton-gneiss | |
63 | 62 | MN Literature | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo of yourself with a book by an author who has called our state home! Our state has a rich literary tradition: F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sinclair Lewis, Louise Erdrich, Marlon James, Leif Enger, Robert Bly, Kate DiCamillo, Sigurd Olson, Maud Hart Lovelace—the list goes on and on. Hint: MNHS Press publishes many Minnesota authors if you're stuck (and there's another task about finding our press books "in the wild," so there's a 2-for-1 chance here). | https://shop.mnhs.org/pages/mnhs-press-categories | |
64 | 63 | MN State Park | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Snap a selfie with the entrance sign at one of Minnesota's 65 state parks (do so safely and follow all park regulations)! In 1891, Itasca State Park became Minnesota's first state park and one of the first state parks in the nation. You can learn the history of the park by following the MNopedia link and find a full list of eligible parks from the MN DNR website. | https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/index.html, https://www.mnopedia.org/event/creation-itasca-state-park | |
65 | 64 | MNHS Press Books | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Find a MNHS Press book in the wild at your local bookshop or library and get a picture of yourself with it. Founded in 1859, the Minnesota Historical Society Press is the oldest publisher in the state with over 500 books currently in print. We've been publishing books almost as long as Minnesota has been a state and have something for everyone: history, sports, music, children's books, cookbooks—you name it! For a list of titles, check the link. Or ask your local librarian! | https://shop.mnhs.org/collections/browse-mnhs-press-titles?sort_by=best-selling | |
66 | 65 | National Park units | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Did you know Minnesota is home to 6 National Park units? Voyageurs National Park, Grand Portage National Monument, Pipestone National Monument, Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, & North Country National Scenic Trail. Get a photo of yourself with a National Park Service sign (or a North Country trail marker) at any site. The St. Croix NSR visitor center in St. Croix Falls, WI does count, despite being across the border. More info in link. | https://www.nps.gov/state/mn/index.htm | |
67 | 66 | New State Seal/Wild Rice | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY This year, Minnesota adopted a new state seal featuring our state grain: wild rice. Snap a photo of yourself enjoying this delicious Minnesota staple. Wild rice, known as manoomin in Ojibwe, has been harvested by Native Minnesotans for generations and is a food of great historical, spiritual, and cultural importance for Ojibwe people in particular. Learn more about our new state seal and wild rice via the links. | https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/wild-rice-and-ojibwe , https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/minnesota-state-seal | |
68 | 67 | Paul Bunyan & Babe | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with Minnesota’s favorite lumberjack and his trusty ox: Paul Bunyan and Babe! It could be the statues in Bemidji or Akeley, or something smaller, you decide. Did you know that the first story printed about these characters was a short editorial in the Duluth Evening Herald on August 4, 1904? Learn more about the history of these legends on MNopedia, just follow the link. | https://www.mnopedia.org/person/paul-bunyan | |
69 | 68 | Peanuts Statues | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with some of the most beloved characters to ever come out of Minnesota: the Peanuts gang! The first Peanuts strip from St. Paul's Charles Schulz debuted on Oct 2, 1950 in 7 newspapers, but eventually was seen in 2,600 newspapers around the world. You can take a photo with the bronze statues in St. Paul's Rice Park, one of the remaining "Peanuts on Parade" statues around the Twin Cities, or another version of the characters that you have close at hand. | ||
70 | 69 | National Wildlife Refuge | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a selfie with a sign showing you're at one of Minnesota's 13 National Wildlife Refuges, from Mille Lacs NWR (the state's first in 1915 and the nation's smallest) to Glacial Ridge NWR, the state's newest in 2004. These public lands provide habitat for hundreds of species and opportunities for recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, birding, hunting, and more! Check the link for books from MNHS Press about our state's natural landscapes. | https://www.fws.gov/our-facilities?state_name=%5B%22Minnesota%22%5D, https://shop.mnhs.org/collections/browse-mnhs-press-titles/nature-and-environment | |
71 | 70 | Personal History | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Our vision at MNHS is that the people of Minnesota will be grounded in their personal, community, and state history. Take a photo of yourself with a place, person, or object that is important to your personal or family history. It could be a significant place, an heirloom passed down through generations, or an elder in your community that shares wisdom and knowledge. It could be something connects you to well-known Minnesota histories. The choice is yours! | ||
72 | 71 | Ramsey Virtual Tour | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take the virtual tour of the Alexander Ramsey House (follow link) and answer this question. In the Reception Room, there is a set of matching objects on the piano. What are they made of? Be sure to click the information button in the virtual tour to find the answer. You can tour the Alexander Ramsey House in person on the first Saturday of the month, or take virtual tours of more MNHS sites from the comfort of home. Follow the links for more info. | https://www.mnhs.org/ramseyhouse/activities/virtual-tour, https://www.mnhs.org/tours/virtual-tours | |
73 | 72 | Southdale Shopping Mall | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Snap a photo of yourself at a MN original: the enclosed shopping mall! The first fully-enclosed mall in the US was Southdale Shopping Mall in Edina, opened in 1956. Designed by architect Victor Gruen, Southdale paved the way for a new shopping experience on a grand scale, housing 72 different stores across 2 stories wrapped around a "town square" complete with fish pond. 36 years later, the largest indoor mall in the country opened in Bloomington: the Mall of America! | https://libguides.mnhs.org/southdale/ov | |
74 | 73 | Teacher Education/Curriculum | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | 73 ANY MNHS does a lot to support history education in Minnesota beyond our museums and historic sites, including: National History Day in Minnesota, supplemental curriculum products, professional development workshops for teachers, and more. Follow the link to learn how we support history education for Minnesota teachers and students and find the answer to this question: what is the title of MNHS' curriculum for Minnesota History? | https://www.mnhs.org/education | |
75 | 74 | Town Ball | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Forget the Twins, check out your local Town Ball team and snap a photo of yourself enjoying this unique Minnesota pastime. For over 100 years, Minnesota has had thriving amateur baseball leagues, something few other states can claim. Check teams & schedules at the link. | https://minnesotabaseballassociation.org/ https://shop.mnhs.org/products/baseball-in-minnesota | |
76 | 75 | Town festivals | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Get a photo of yourself at a local festival near you and include something with the festival name (note: save county fairs for the county fair task). Fun fact: Norwood Young America's Stiftungsfest is Minnesota's longest running festival and will celebrate its 163rd edition this year (read more in the link). It's not the only town festival in our state, so get out and explore! | https://www.mnopedia.org/group/stiftungsfest | |
77 | 76 | Train engine | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Find a historic train engine or caboose near you and snap a photo with it. The history of Minnesota since the late 19th century is inseparable from the history of railroads. The Great Northern, the Northern Pacific, and the Soo Line made St. Paul one of the busiest hubs in the nation and steam engines crossed the state from the Iron Range to the Red River Valley powering Minnesota's industries in mining, timber, agriculture, and more. Explore our railroad collections at the links. | https://libguides.mnhs.org/railroad/ , https://www.mnhs.org/search/collections | |
78 | 77 | Welcome to Minnesota signs | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Take a photo with one of the many "Welcome to Minnesota" signs that line our borders, but please do so safely! Entry markers were formally installed across the state beginning in the 1930s and today there are 65 that welcome tens of millions of travelers to our state each year. Check the link for a map from MNDOT with all the sign locations. | https://www.dot.state.mn.us/restareas/entry-signs/entry-monuments.html | |
79 | 78 | MN Agriculture | Photo/Video | Anywhere/Multiple | ANY Snap a photo with an example of Minnesota's rich agricultural tradition, from backyard gardens to farmers' markets to our top-10 nationally ranked farming industry! Agriculture has been in Minnesota for at least 2500 years & has been life-giving for generations of Minnesotans, including Dakota & Ojibwe nations, homesteaders, immigrant communities like Norwegians & Hmong, and global companies like Cargill and CHS. Learn more at MNHS' Oliver Kelley Farm or MNopedia, info in links. | https://www.mnopedia.org/land-labor-market-and-politics , https://www.mnhs.org/kelleyfarm | |
80 | 79 | MNopedia: Betty Crocker Cake Mix | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA Now a staple in stores everywhere, General Mills debuted its 1st Betty Crocker cake mix in 1947 with a ginger cake mix. The ingredients for the history of cake mix include post-war America's ideas about convenience, gender, domesticity, nutrition, and money. Read about it at the link and answer this question: when marketing expert Ernest Dichter interviewed women about cake mixes, he found that it made them feel ____? Want more baking history? Visit Mill City Museum in Minneapolis! | https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/betty-crocker-cake-mix, https://www.mnhs.org/millcity | |
81 | 80 | MNopedia: Val Johnson Incident | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA One of the most puzzling events in Minnesota history is the Val Johnson incident of 1979 in Marshall County. Deputy Johnson's encounter with an unidentified flying object (UFO) on Co. Hwy 5 remains one of the most famous encounters of its kind. You can visit Johnson's damaged squad car at the Marshall County Historical Society and see the evidence for yourself. Learn the full story at the link and answer this question: how many feet did the car travel after being hit by the object? | https://www.mnopedia.org/event/val-johnson-incident-1979 | |
82 | 81 | MNopedia: CLUES | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA The first Latino known to make a home in MN was Luis Garzón in 1886. Nearly a century later, Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES) opened to provide language-appropriate, culturally competent mental health services for Latinos. CLUES is the largest Latino-led nonprofit in the state and has expanded to offer many services in the Twin Cities, Willmar, and Austin. In 2004, they even helped organize a visit by the President of which country? Check the link for the answer. | https://www.mnopedia.org/place/comunidades-latinas-unidas-en-servicio-clues | |
83 | 82 | MNopedia: Lacemaking Birch Coulee | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA At the turn of the 20th century, a lacemaking school operated at Birch Coulee, today known as the Lower Sioux Indian Community. The school was part of assimilation efforts directed towards the Dakota, but the Birch Coulee lace makers used the school to seize economic opportunities, travel the world, and continue a tradition of communal artmaking by Dakota women. In 1900, several Dakota women showed their work at what international exposition? Find the answer in the link. | https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/lacemaking-birch-coulee-1893-1926 | |
84 | 83 | MNopedia: Minnesota State Flag | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA There are many opinions about our new state flag, but flag redesign has a long history in Minnesota. Today's flag is our 4th state flag. Previous flags were adopted in 1893, 1957, & 1983. The legislature chose the 1893 flag, but created a commission to redesign it in 1957, similar to 2023. Reconsideration of the 1957 flag began as far back as 1989 and many bills to redesign the flag were considered by the legislature from 2000-2023. How many? Read the article for the answer. | https://www.mnopedia.org/thing/minnesota-state-flag | |
85 | 84 | MNopedia: Oromos in Minnesota | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA Minnesota's history of migration and immigration reaches back centuries. Read the article at the link to learn about Oromos in Minnesota and answer the question here. Oromos are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia. After Kenya, Minnesota has the largest population of Oromos outside of Ethiopia. Their contributions to Minnesota life, work, and culture began in the 1970s with the first two Oromos to settle in the state. Who were they? (Note: Geri, an American, does not count). | https://www.mnopedia.org/oromos-minnesota-making-little-oromia | |
86 | 85 | MNopedia: Virginia Lane Frazier | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA Virginia Lane Frazier was one of the first Black Army’s Women’s Corps (WAC) soldiers to enlist in Minnesota during World War II. She was part of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion stationed in England. She and her fellow battalion members cleared a 6-month backlog of war correspondence in only 3 months! Follow the link to read about her and find the answer to this trivia question: who did Frazier win a doubles tennis championship with during training? | https://www.mnopedia.org/person/frazier-virginia-lane-1921-2012 | |
87 | 86 | MNopedia: Grand Portage NM | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA In 1922, MNHS director Solon Buck campaigned to preserve Grand Portage, an important site of travel & trade used for over 1000 years located on the Grand Portage Reservation. In 1958, the Grand Portage tribal council took the unusual step of ceding tribal land to the US for the creation of Grand Portage National Monument. Today, the Monument is co-managed by the Grand Portage Band and the National Park Service. Check the link to answer this: how much land was given by the Band? | https://www.mnopedia.org/place/grand-portage-national-monument | |
88 | 87 | MNopedia: Great Hinckley Fire | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA The Great Hinckley Fire of 1894 burned an estimated 480 square miles, resulting in massive destruction and over 418 deaths. It began as two fires that joined together south of Hinckley, fueled by "slash" leftover from logging operations. It burned quickly, and tragically many were unable to escape the flames. Some bravely helped others escape, like the three train engineers mentioned in the article linked here. What were their names? | https://www.mnopedia.org/event/great-hinckley-fire-1894 | |
89 | 88 | MNopedia: Joe Huie’s Café | Trivia | Anywhere/Multiple | MNOPEDIA Joe Huie stepped off a boat from his native Guangzhou, China in 1909 at the age of 17 and immediately boarded a train to Duluth, getting a job washing dishes. By 1951, he had saved enough money to open his own restaurant and named it Joe Huie’s Café. It soon became an iconic Duluth landmark. When Huie retired in 1973 and closed shop, Duluth mourned the loss. Read more at the link and answer this: what was the cafe's most famous dish? | https://www.mnopedia.org/place/joe-huie-s-caf-duluth | |
90 | 89 | Assumption Chapel (Grasshoppers) | GPS Check-in | Central | CEN Check-in at the Assumption Chapel in Cold Spring, also known as the Grasshopper Chapel. In 1877, millions of Rocky Mountain Locusts destroyed the grain crops of farmers across the state. Gov. Pillsbury proclaimed April 26th a day of prayer in response. The people of Cold Spring vowed that if the Blessed Virgin would rid them of the locusts, they would build a chapel. The locusts disappeared and the people kept their promise. Read more about the chapel & locust plagues at the links. | https://christcatholic.com/parishes/assumption-chapel , https://www.mnopedia.org/event/grasshopper-plagues-1873-1877 | |
91 | 90 | Buffalo statues in Buffalo | Photo/Video | Central | CEN Take a photo with one of the colorful "Buffalo Roam" statues in Buffalo (map in link). Bison have been an essential part of Minnesota history for millenia, but were nearly hunted to extinction in the 19th century. Luckily, they were not and you can see herds of these animals once again in our state. To see ancient rock carvings of bison, visit Jeffers Petroglyphs. To take apart a bison and learn how the Dakota have used this animal, visit Then, Now, Wow! at the History Center in St. Paul. | https://www.buffalochamber.org/download_file/view_inline/1323, https://www.mnhs.org/locations | |
92 | 91 | Dala Horse/Mora | Photo/Video | Central | CEN Take a photo with the 22-ft tall Swedish Dala Horse in Mora at 653 S Union St. Mora was named after Mora, Sweden, the original home of some of the area's first settlers and the original home of Dala horses. These painted horses have been carved for generations in Sweden and have become a symbol of the country. In 1971, volunteers built this giant-sized version as a reminder of Mora's historical connections to Sweden. Learn more about Swedish immigration to MN at the link. | https://www.mnopedia.org/swedish-immigration-minnesota | |
93 | 92 | Heritage Plaza in St. Cloud | GPS Check-in | Central | CEN Check-in at Heritage Plaza in front of the Great River Regional Library in St. Cloud at 1300 W St Germain St. The plaza displays granite flags from over 88 countries around the world where citizens of St. Cloud immigrated from. It is a reminder of the diversity of Minnesota's people, from descendants of St. Cloud's German settlers in the 1850s to the city's newest Americans from Somalia and elsewhere. Learn more about our history of immigration and settlement in the links. | https://www.mnopedia.org/immigrants-and-refugees-minnesota-connecting-past-and-present , | |
94 | 93 | Humphrey Memorial in Waverly | Photo/Video | Central | CEN Take a photo with the bust of Hubert H. Humphrey in Waverly's Railroad Park. Humphrey, a giant in MN politics and one of the most influential liberal leaders of the 20th century, called Waverly home from 1956 until his death in 1978. As Minneapolis mayor, he forced the Democratic party to take on Civil Rights in 1948 & as Senator, played a key role in passing the Civil Rights Act of 1964, among many other accomplishments. You can browse over 90k pages of his speeches in our collections. | https://libguides.mnhs.org/hhh | |
95 | 94 | Lindstrom Water Tower | Photo/Video | Central | CEN Take a photo with Lindstrom's famous coffee pot water tower in the middle of downtown near Maple St (it's hard to miss). Emblazoned with Välkommen till Lindström, this tower welcomes you to Lindstrom, "America's Little Sweden." Founded in 1853 by Swedish settlers, it remains a center of Swedish-American heritage and pride. Read more about the water tower's history and the town with Lindstrom's historical walking tour, details in link. | https://www.cityoflindstrom.us/visitor-information-tourism/pages/lindstr%C3%B6m-historical-walking-tour | |
96 | 95 | Lucette Statue in Hackensack | Photo/Video | Central | CEN Take a photo with Lucette Diana Kensack, Paul Bunyan's 17-ft tall sweetheart, in Hackensack. Perched at the end of Lake St in Birch Lake Park, Lucette has stood here since 1952, but hasn't always looked this way. A storm damaged the original in 1999, prompting repairs and a new look. If you want to hear Lucette sing, join MNHS for "History on-a-Schtick" every morning at the State Fair at the Schell's Stage at Schilling Amphitheater in the West End! | https://www.mnstatefair.org/location/schells-stage-at-schilling-amphitheater/ | |
97 | 96 | Maine Prairie Corner Site | GPS Check-in | Central | CEN Check-in at the Maine Prairie Corner Wayside Park, 5 miles north of Kimball on MN-15 (pay attention for a "historical marker" sign). Hard to believe that there used to be a village at this site, but it's true! In 1856, settlers from Maine built a town here. When the railroad passed them by in 1886, the townsite was abandoned & today nothing remains. This happened to many towns in MN, including MHNS' Historic Forestville, but parts of Forestville still remain and can be visited! Info in link. | https://www.mnhs.org/forestville | |
98 | 97 | Northern Pacific Shops/Brainerd | GPS Check-in | Central | CEN Check-in at the Northern Pacific Railroad Shops in Brainerd at 1511 Northern Pacific Rd. This historic complex was once the heartbeat of the Northern Pacific Railroad's transcontinental empire. Brainerd was built when the NPRR located their bridge over the Mississippi here. The NPRR president even gave the city his wife's maiden name, Brainerd. Today, this historic complex is a multi-use destination. Check out MNHS resources for railroad history at the links. | https://libguides.mnhs.org/railroad , https://www.mnhs.org/hillhouse | |
99 | 98 | Oldest Sauna/Cokato | GPS Check-in | Central | CEN Check-in at what is believed to be the oldest sauna in Minnesota at 2001 County Rd 3 SW north of Cokato, moved here in 1979 by the local Finnish American Hist. Society. The Savu Sauna was built in 1868 by 3 families of Finnish settlers. The Finnish custom of using the sauna without clothing caused quite a stir among neighbors, especially after a road was built next to it. Read more about the 1885 court case against the sauna owners accusing them of strange religious practices at the link. | https://www.mnopedia.org/structure/barberg-selv-l-salmonson-sauna-cokato | |
100 | 99 | Sinclair Lewis/Sauk Centre | Photo/Video | Central | CEN Take a photo with the Sinclair Lewis mural on the back of the Palmer House Hotel at 500 Sinclair Lewis Ave in Sauk Centre. Lewis was the first American to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1930 and grew up just down the street at 810 Sinclair Lewis Ave. His novel Main Street, loosely based on his childhood in Sauk Centre, was a sensation when it was published in 1920 & rocketed him to fame and fortune. Learn more about Lewis at the link. | https://www.mnopedia.org/person/lewis-harry-sinclair-1885-1951 |