Upcoming Programs
The Steele County Historical Society is dedicated to producing educational programming for the benefit of our members and our community. Programs are held at the History Center throughout the year and explore a variety of topics that relate to our county's history. Many of these programs are free and open to the public, so make sure to check back frequently to see what we have on the calendar!
​ Upcoming Events and Programs
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2025​
Programs and Events- Recurring Monthly
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History Partners Memory Cafe
Second and Fourth Tuesdays of the Month, at 10:00 amJanuary 14 & 28, February 11 & 25, March 11 & 25, April 8 & 22, May 13 & 27, June 10 & 24, July 8 & 22, August 26, September 9 & 23, October 14 & 28, November 11 & 25, December 9 & 23. ​
This free program is open to people living with mild to moderate cognitive impairment and their caregivers. This in-person program, which provides a social activity in a safe environment, connects family and friends with community services in the area. If you are new to the program, please call 507-451-1420. ​
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Thank you to our 2025 contributing sponsor, Olmsted Medical Center.
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Genealogy Club
First Tuesday of the Month, 10:00 am session. January 7, February 4, March 4, April 1, May 6, June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2, October 7, November 4, December 2.
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Third Thursday of the Month, 6:00 pm session. January 28, February 20, March 20, April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, September 18, October 16, November 20, December 18.
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Whether you are new to genealogy or a seasoned family history researcher, we hope you'll join us! Each meeting offers a new topic and genealogy assistance. Free to SCHS members and $5 per meeting for non-members.
January
30- Souper Sweet Fundraiser Dinner
Join us on Thursday, January 30 at the History Center for a sit-down Soup Souper and Sweet Treat Live Auction. All proceeds raised will go towards HVAC software upgrades.
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Tickets are $15 per person for the all-you-can-eat dinner. The menu includes turkey wild rice, chili, tomato basil soup, salad, rolls, and bars. Dinner will be served at 5:00 pm.
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The Sweet Treat Live Auction will begin at 6:00 pm. Bid on delectable treats made by SCHS volunteers.
Reserve your place at the dinner by Monday, January 27. Please call 507-451-1420 to reserve your seat.
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This event is sponsored by Rocon Inc.
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February
8- Victorian Tea
Saturday, February 8 at 10:30 and 1:00 pm SCHS will offer two tea sittings at the Dunnell House. This year participants will learn about dating and courtship etiquette in the Victorian Era. Tickets are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Space is limited and reservations are due by Monday, February 3.
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Menu includes:
Frozen Strawberry Mocktails
Sausage and Cheese Quiche
Chocolate Chip Scone
Ham & Cheese Open-Face Sandwich on Rye
Green Salad with Lemon Dressing
Chocolate Mousse with a Shortbread Cookie.
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This program is sponsored by Rita Stilwell.
March
17- Annual Meeting
Monday, March 17- SCHS welcomes all members to the Annual Meeting held during the Board Meeting. We will recap the past year and look towards our 2025 goals. Members will be provided the new budget and proposed bylaw revisions.
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22- Genealogy Games Live- Clue?
Saturday, March 22, join us at the Owatonna Arts Center as we hold the second Annual Genealogy Games Live.
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Check back for more details on the following programs and events!
April
12- The Exaggerated History of Steele County
21- Volunteer Appreciation
25- SCHS Gala Dinner
The event is sponsored by North Risk Partners.
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May
10- Rosemaling Workshop with Lyn Rein of MOD Nordia Arts
This workshop is made possible by grant funding from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council
and funding from the Clean Water Land and Legacy Amendment.
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June
22- Jazz Jam on the Patio with H30 Trio
The performance is sponsored by Jerry Ganfield.
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July
12- Lace Making Workshop with Minnesota Lace Society
This workshop is made possible by grant funding from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council
and funding from the Clean Water Land and Legacy Amendment.
13- Extravaganza
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August
11- Steele County Prisoner of War Camp Program
12-17- Steele County Free Fair
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September
6- Onward and Upward: The Value of Reminiscing
This program is sponsored by Joni Mosher and Berniece Schroht
13- Orphanage Museum Fall Celebration
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October
9 & 11- Murder Mystery Dinner at the Dunnell House
25- Flashlight Fright Night
The event is sponsored by Curt's Truck and Diesel.
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November
15- Children's Victorian Tea
This program is sponsored by Mary Anne and Matt Higgins
17- Membership & Awards Dinner
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December
3-5- Holiday Tours of the Village
3 & 4- Holiday Cookie Sale
6- Christmas in the Village
This event is sponsored by Viracon.
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Check back soon for future Events and Programs at the Steele County Historical Society!
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