Big Stone County Historical Society

The Lac qui Parle Yellow Bank Water District in Madison, MN is home to the Lac qui Parle History Center, which aims to visually and chronologically represent the rich heritage of Lac qui Parle County, Minnesota. The museum campus consists of six separate buildings, including an educational museum and research library, a log cabin from the 1870s, a rural schoolhouse from the late 1800s, and an agricultural machinery and transportation exhibit building. The center also features exhibits such as a collection of personality dolls, a military display spanning from the Civil War to Desert Storm, and a century of education schools display. Outside exhibits include a log cabin that was once a schoolhouse, a schoolhouse from Cerro Gordo Township, and a machine shed showcasing various farming and blacksmith equipment. With free admission and a focus on constantly updating displays to keep visitors engaged, the Lac qui Parle History Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and heritage of Lac qui Parle County.Generated from the website

Since its beginnings in 1922 and even back to the Old Settlers Association, founded in 1876 Stevens County Historical Society has worked diligently to collect the best examples of historical artifacts of life on the prairie. Everything from books and letters to clothing, tools, utensils, photographs, and handmade articles have found its way into our collections. The Historical Museum houses captivating displays of items once used in farming, industry, spinning, cooking, education, religion, medicine, animal husbandry, housing, and works of local artisans in Stevens County. The Old Settlers Association was formed to commemorate and honor the pioneer spirit of the early settlers of western Minnesota. This was a story of indomitable hope ; the transformation of the great expanse of prairie into what has been called one of the most prosperous and promising counties in the western part of the state. The earliest settlers to Stevens County were awed by the immensity of the area its beauty and strength, its endless possibilities. They respected the land and the power of the weather as they sacrificed and labored to build new lives in a new world. Today, our 400+ members and thousands of visitors each year embody the spirit of those who came before us with their generosity, inventiveness, hard-work, and continued hope in the bright future of life West Central Minnesota. As we move further into the new 21st Century, we pledge to continue our mission to

The Stavig House Museum in Sisseton, South Dakota is a historic treasure that showcases the authentic story of a Norwegian immigrant family through three generations. Built in 1916 by Scandinavian craftsmen, this Victorian-era home combines elements of Arts and Crafts style architecture. The museum, listed on the National Historic Register, takes visitors on a journey from the family's fishing roots in Norway to their life as homesteaders on the Dakota prairie, and finally to their success as Main Street entrepreneurs in the town of Sisseton. Featuring a three-story tower, a wrap-around front porch, and exquisite interior woodwork, the Stavig House is a testament to the quality craftsmanship of its builders. The museum also houses the Stavig Letters Collection, an extensive archive of letters exchanged between two brothers, one who immigrated to America and the other who remained in Norway. These letters provide a firsthand account of the immigrant experience, documenting the challenges and triumphs faced by the Stavig family. Through a readers theater production, an Emmy-award winning documentary, and a published book, the Stavig House Museum brings to life the universal story of immigration and the pursuit of a better life.Generated from the website