FREE
ADMISSION
You heard right: admission to the History Center is now FREE! As of July 1, 2022, general admission into the History Center is free of charge. Stop by today to see the history that helped make Steele County!
The Steele County Historical Society (SCHS) is dedicated to preserving our past, sharing our county's stories, and connecting people with history in new and meaningful ways. We do this today for the benefit of future generations, because history matters!
Steele County and the SCHS are part of Minnesota's rich and diverse history. Established in 1949 to preserve the history of Steele County, we have since grown to become one of the largest and most prestigious historical societies in the state. We play an important role in historic preservation, education, and tourism, and we provide the public with educational award-winning programs, exhibitions, and events.
We owe it to future generations to be good stewards of the past. Join us and be a part of this mission. It's the best deal in history!
HOURS
History Center
Tues- Fri: 10am - 4pm
SAT: 10am - 3pm
Closed SUN, MON
Village of Yesteryear
Open Year-Round
Tours offered May 1 - September 30
Orphanage Museum
Main Museum
Mon - Fri: 8am - 4:30 pm
Sat - Sun: 1 - 5 pm
Cottage 11
Tuesday-Sunday
March 1 - April 30: 1 - 3 pm
May 1 - Labor Day: 1 - 4 pm
Labor Day - December 31: 1 - 3 pm
ADMISSION FEES
History Center
FREE ADMISSION
Suggested Donation: $2 per person
Village of Yesteryear
May 1 - September 30
Tours Tuesday - Sunday at 1:30pm
Adults: $5
Children (ages 7 - 16): $3
Orphanage Museum and Cottage 11
FREE ADMISSION
Suggested Donation: $2 per person
What are people saying
about the
Steele County Historical Society?
"Great place to bring the kids!"
- Summer G.
ADDRESS
History Center
1700 Austin Road
Owatonna, MN 55060
Village of Yesteryear
1448 Austin Road
Owatonna, MN 55060
Orphanage Museum
540 West Hills Circle
Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone: 507-451-1420