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Keeping Steele County’s Stories Alive

The Steele County Historical Society (SCHS) is dedicated to preserving our past, sharing the stories of our county, and connecting people with history in new and meaningful ways. We do this today so future generations can understand, appreciate, and learn from the past—because history matters.

Steele County is an important part of Minnesota’s rich, diverse history. Founded in 1949 to preserve and share that history, SCHS has grown into one of the state’s leading historical societies. Through historic preservation, education, and tourism, we connect people to the past through our award-winning programs, exhibitions, events, and collections.

We have a responsibility to be good stewards of the past and ensure these stories endure for generations to come.

Join us and be part of the mission. It’s the best deal in history!

Our mission is to preserve history today
for tomorrow.

History Center

1700 Austin Road

Owatonna, MN 55060

Free Admission

Suggested Donation: $2/person

Hours

Tues - Fri: 10am - 4pm

Sat: 10am - 3pm

Closed Sun and Mon

Orphanage Museum
& Cottage 11

540 West Hills Circle

Owatonna, MN 55060

Free Admission

Suggested Donation: $2/person

Main Museum Hours

Tues - Fri: 8am - 4:30pm

Sat - Sun: 1 - 5pm​

Cottage 11 Hours

Tues - Sun

Mar 1 - Apr 30: 1 - 3pm

May 1 - Labor Day: 1 - 4pm

Labor Day - Dec 31: 1 - 3pm

Village of Yesteryear

1448 Austin Road

Owatonna, MN 55060

Tour Cost

$5/Adult, $3/Child (ages 7 - 16)

Hours

Open Year Round

Tours

May 1 - Sept 30

Tues - Sun at 1:30pm

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© 2020-2026 by Steele County Historical Society, 1700 Austin Road, Owatonna, MN.  507-451-1420

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