​November 

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14  -    Children's Victorian Tea 

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10:30 and 1:00 pm

Dunnell House

 

Kick off the holiday season with the annual Children’s Victorian Tea for children ages 4 to 10 years, with an adult. Enjoy a special lunch, holiday music, and the story of St. Nicholas at the Dunnell House. Children will be given a craft to take home. ​This program is sponsored by Matt and MaryAnne Higgins.

 

19 - Prelude to the Holidays: Sip & Shop & Candlelight Tours

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History Center

Holiday shoppers are encouraged to attend the Sip and Shop. Local craft artisans and a wide variety of area businesses will have merchandise available to purchase this evening. Guests will be able to purchase glasses of wine or beer throughout the evening.
This event will be a wonderful way to start or finish your holiday shopping. 

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Village of Yesteryear

Come see the beautifully decorated Dunnell House for the holidays! Area nonprofits and businesses decorate the Dunnell House to the delight of adults and children this holiday season. You can also explore the Village while the boardwalk is light by candlelight.

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December 

Christmas in the Village Activities! 

2 -     Fancy Cookie Sale

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Wednesday, December 2 from 3:00-7:00 pm or until sold out! 

SCHS is calling all cookie bakers to bake 4 to 6 dozen cookies for the Holiday Cookie Sale. There will be no limit to the number of plates you can purchase. If purchasing in bulk, please bring a box. 

 

4 - Holiday Tours of the Dunnell House

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1:30 to 3:30 pm 

Come see the beautifully decorated Dunnell House for the holidays! Area nonprofit organizations and businesses will decorate the Dunnell House to the delight of adults and children this holiday season. 

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5 - Christmas in the Village 

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10:30 to 2:30 pm 

History Center and Village of Yesteryear

 

Children will be able to visit Santa & Mrs. Claus and listen to the Polar Express in the Bixby Depot scheduled at 12:30 and 2:30 pm.  More holiday activities will be added in the future. The Dunnell House will be open for everyone to see the decorated rooms and sample fresh-baked cookies. ​​​​

 

2027 Programs & Events

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January 

23 - Sip & Paint 

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Time to be Determined

History Center

 

Warm up during Owatonna’s annual Bold & Cold Festival with a fun and creative Sip & Paint! Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, sip your favorite mocktail, and unleash your inner artist as you create a masterpiece to take home. No experience necessary—just bring your creativity and get ready for a great time!

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28 - National Register of Historic Places Presentation

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Time to be Determined 

History Center

 

Discover the rich history and architectural treasures of Steele County through a presentation highlighting buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn the stories behind these historic landmarks and their significance to our community. 

 

February

13 - Adult Victorian Tea

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10:30 A.M. or 1:00 P.M.

Dunnell House at the Village of Yesteryear

 

Step back in time and experience the elegance of the Victorian era at an adult tea hosted at the historic Dunnell House in the Village of Yesteryear. Enjoy a charming afternoon of tea, conversation, and Victorian-inspired hospitality in a beautiful historic setting. Dress up if you wish and enjoy a delightful taste of the past!  Please call (507) 451-1420 to RSVP.

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25 - Forgotten First Ladies Presentation by Eileen Newhouse

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Time to be Determined

History Center

 

Join Eileen Newhouse for Forgotten First Ladies, an engaging presentation exploring the lives and legacies of America’s First Ladies who may have faded from public memory. Discover their personal stories, contributions, and the important roles they played in shaping American history behind the scenes.

 

March

11 - History Hags Presentation

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Time to be Determined

History Center

 

Join the History Hags, Nancy Vaillancourt and Anne Peterson, for an engaging and entertaining presentation filled with fascinating stories and historical insights. With their passion for history and knack for bringing the past to life, they’ll share intriguing tales that inform, inspire, and delight audiences of all ages.

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April

23 - History Uncorked Dinner Theater Gala

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Time to be Determined

History Center

 

Join us for History Uncorked, a special dinner theater gala that takes a deep dive into a fascinating criminal case from Steele County’s past. Enjoy an evening of history, intrigue, and entertainment as the story unfolds, bringing a compelling piece of local history to life. This special event also serves as a fundraiser supporting the Steele County Historical Society and its mission to preserve history today for tomorrow.

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May

23 - Gus' Station Panel Discussion 

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join us for an engaging discussion panel exploring the history of Gus’ Station and its place in the Ellendale community. Hear stories, share memories, and learn more about the people, events, and local history that helped make Gus’ Station a memorable part of Ellendale's past.

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June

10 - Jeff Jarvis Presentation on the Wahpekute Dakota

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join Jeff Jarvis for an informative presentation exploring the history and heritage of the Wahpekute Dakota, one of the Dakota bands with deep ties to Southern Minnesota. Learn about their traditions, culture, and connections to the land while gaining a greater understanding of their important place in the region’s history.

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27 - Jazz Jam on the Patio

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Enjoy an afternoon or evening of smooth sounds and lively rhythms with the H3O Jazz Ensemble on the patio of the History Center! Relax in a welcoming outdoor setting while listening to great live jazz surrounded by local history. Bring a friend and join us for a memorable musical experience at the History Center!

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July

11 - Extravaganza

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12- 4 P.M.

Village of Yesteryear

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Join us for Extravaganza, a fun-filled day for the whole family at the Village of Yesteryear! Enjoy live music, watch traditional craft demonstrations, sample delicious food available for purchase, explore the historic village, and take part in a variety of activities for all ages. Come celebrate history, heritage, and community with a day of entertainment and discovery for everyone!

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17 - Connecting Kids to the Outdoors

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Time to be Determined

Alfred F. Reding Environmental Education Center, 1546 58th Street SW, Owatonna, MN 55060

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Join us for Connecting Kids to the Outdoors, a hands-on program that encourages children to explore and appreciate the natural world! Kids will have the opportunity to build their own birdhouse while learning about the prairie plants surrounding the Alfred F. Reding Environmental Education Center. It’s a fun and educational experience that inspires curiosity, creativity, and a love for the outdoors!

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24 - Historic Car Cruise Around Steele County

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Time to be Determined

Start at History Center

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Take a scenic drive through Steele County and discover the history behind some of the area’s most interesting historic locations during our Car Cruise! The cruise will conclude with a picnic outside the History Center, bringing car enthusiasts and history lovers together for a great cause. Call (507) 451-1420 to reserve your ticket and help raise funds for the construction of a Service Bay by Gus’ Station in the Village of Yesteryear!

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29 - Temperance Movement in Steele County by Nancy Vaillancourt

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join Nancy Vaillancourt for an engaging presentation exploring the history of the Temperance Movement in Steele County. Discover how local individuals and communities worked to promote temperance, the impact the movement had on the area, and the role it played in shaping Steele County’s social and cultural history.

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August

16 - Presentation and Book Signing by Ron Eustice

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join local author Ron Eustice on the Monday before the Steele County Free Fair for an engaging presentation about his newest books. Hear the stories and inspiration behind his latest works, enjoy an opportunity to connect with the author, and stay afterward for a book signing. It’s a wonderful way to kick off fair week while celebrating local talent and storytelling!

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17-22 - Steele County Free Fair

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Village of Yesteryear

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Step back in time during the Steele County Free Fair with a visit to the Village of Yesteryear! Tour historic buildings, enjoy live music in the Village center throughout the week, and stop by the Beaver Lake Pop Stand for refreshing vintage sodas and delicious floats. It’s the perfect place to experience local history, enjoy classic treats, and take a break from the fair excitement!

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September

16 - Presentation about State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children

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Time to be Determined

Owatonna Arts Center

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Join us for an engaging presentation exploring the history of the State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children in Owatonna. Learn about the institution’s origins, its role in caring for children from across Minnesota, and the lasting impact it had on the community and the lives of those who lived there. Discover an important chapter of Owatonna’s history and the stories that continue to shape its legacy today.

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18 - Orphanage Museum Fall Celebration

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Time to be Determined

West Hills Campus 540 West Hills

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Join the Steele County Historical Society at the Orphanage Museum in September for an afternoon celebrating the State Public School for Dependent & Neglected Children. This annual event brings the State School era to life with character reenactors, crafts, food, and so much more.

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23 - Onward and Upward: Women in the Armed Forces

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring women who have served in the Armed Forces as they share stories from their military careers and reflect on their experiences serving as women in the military. Hear firsthand accounts of their challenges, accomplishments, and the unique perspectives they bring to military service. This engaging program offers an opportunity to honor their service and gain a deeper appreciation for the contributions of women in the Armed Forces.

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October

7, 9, 16 - Murder Mystery Dinner

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Time to be Determined

Dunnell House at the Village of Yesteryear

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Step into the mystery at the historic Dunnell House for a Clue-style Murder Mystery Dinner filled with secrets, suspense, and unexpected twists! Enjoy an evening of delicious food and interactive fun as you piece together the clues, uncover hidden motives, and work to solve the crime. Space is limited, so call (507) 451-1420 to RSVP and reserve your spot for this unforgettable evening!

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30 - Village Fright Night

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Time to be Determined

Village of Yesteryear

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Get ready for Village Fright Night, an evening of eerie tales, local legends, and spooky stories that will send chills down your spine! Discover the macabre and mysterious history of Steele County and other locations throughout Minnesota as fascinating tales of the strange, unusual, and unexplained come to life. Join us for a hauntingly fun experience filled with history, mystery, and Halloween thrills!

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November

4 - Annual Meeting & Dinner

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Time to be Determined

Location to be Determined

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Join the Steele County Historical Society for our Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Dinner as we celebrate another year of preserving and sharing our community’s history. Enjoy an evening of fellowship, reflect on the Society’s accomplishments, and learn about the exciting projects and plans ahead. This special gathering is our way of thanking our members for their continued support and dedication to keeping Steele County’s history alive!

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13 - Children's Victorian Tea

​ 

10:30 A.M. or 1:00 P.M.

Dunnell House at the Village of Yesteryear

​

Step back in time at the historic Dunnell House for a charming Children’s Victorian Tea! Young guests can experience the elegance and traditions of the Victorian era while enjoying tea-time treats and a delightful atmosphere filled with history and imagination. Dress in your finest attire and join us for a memorable afternoon of old-fashioned fun!

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15 - History of Medford Presentation by Barb Kasper

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join Barb Kasper for an engaging presentation exploring the history of Medford, Minnesota. Discover the stories, people, and events that helped shape the community over the years and learn more about Medford’s unique place in Steele County’s history. Whether you’re a longtime resident or simply interested in local history, this presentation offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with the past.

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18 - Sip & Shop

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Kick off the holiday season at our Sip and Shop, where you can find unique gifts and holiday treasures from local businesses while enjoying delicious wine and food from Grapeful Wine Bar. Gather your friends for a festive shopping experience that celebrates local businesses, great flavors, and the joy of the season. Shop local, sip, and savor your way into the holidays!

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December

1 - Holiday Cookie Sale

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Get into the holiday spirit with the Steele County Historical Society’s Holiday Cookie Sale! Treat yourself to a delicious assortment of holiday cookies lovingly baked by our dedicated volunteers, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home. Every purchase supports the Steele County Historical Society and helps preserve our history today for tomorrow!

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4 - Christmas in the Village

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10:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M.

History Center and Village of Yesteryear

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Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at Christmas in the Village! Enjoy festive holiday activities, tour the beautifully decorated Dunnell House and Saco Church, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, sip on warm hot chocolate, and decorate delicious cookies. Bring the whole family for a joyful day filled with holiday traditions, historic charm, and Christmas cheer!

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7 - Volunteer Appreciation Potluck

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Time to be Determined

History Center

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Join us for a Volunteer Appreciation Potluck as we celebrate and thank the wonderful volunteers who generously share their time, talents, and passion with the Steele County Historical Society. Enjoy an afternoon of good food, fellowship, and fun as we recognize the invaluable contributions our volunteers make in preserving history today for tomorrow. We couldn’t do it without you!