Protecting the Future by Preserving the Past

ST. PAUL, Minn (February 25, 2025) – The Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) is asking supporters to speak up for history on February 27 during 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 organization’s 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" memoir—a specially-printed artist book with stunning binding—a 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 am–noon
Where:
Minnesota State Capitol
Opening remarks in L’Etoile du Nord Vault Room B15
Information fair in Rotunda - First Floor

The day will begin in the L’Etoile 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 at mnhs.org/historymatters. Those who plan on participating can register to attend in person at the Capitol or virtually via Zoom.

About the Minnesota Historical Society
The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves, and tells the story of Minnesota’s 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 state’s stories, and connects people with history.

# # #