Steele County Historical Society
Categories
Attractions
Hours:
Please visit the website for the History Center, Village of Yesteryear, and Orphanage Museum hours of operation.
Driving Directions:
The History Center and Village of Yesteryear on Austin Rd. off Hwy 14. The Orphanage Museum is located at the West Hills Campus off HWY 35.
About Us
SCHS provides educational programming, events, research assistance, and educational exhibits. The History Center features the Historical Society’s research library, exhibit hall, gift shop, and rental space. The Center is free to all. The Village of Yesteryear features 19 historic structures. The grounds are open year-round. Guided tours are offered May-September. Tours are $5 for adults and $3 for children. The tours are typically 1-2 hours long. The Orphanage Museum preserves the legacy of the Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children and the Owatonna State School. Located on the West Hills Campus, the Main Museum is open year-round. Across the parking lot, guests can tour Cottage 11, a former boy’s dormitory. Cottage 11 is open mid-March to December. Hours vary based on the season. Admission for both sites is free, but a $2 donation is appreciated.
