Based out of Stillwater, “The Birthplace of Minnesota”, the Washington County Historical Society collects, preserves, and disseminates the history of Washington County and its communities.  Join us on our journey through the Gateway to Minnesota History

WCHS sites and museums temporarily closed until further notice.

The health and safety of our guests, staff, volunteers, interns, and community is our highest priority. In response to ongoing concerns over social distancing in public, we have decided to keep our historic sites, museums and research center closed and all in-person events and field trips.

Staff will still answer inquiries by phone, email or via Facebook whenever possible.

Half Minute History – Stillwater’s Grand Opera House

 

Museums are Closed for the Tour Season

The Warden’s House Museum in Stillwater and The Hay Lake School Museum & Erickson Log House in Scandia are now closed. 

 

Museums & Research Center Hours

Nancy & Robert Goodman Research Center
602 Main Street N., Stillwater
(651) 439-5956 | information@wchsmn.org

Warden’s House Museum
602 Main Street N., Stillwater 

Hay Lake School and Johannes Erickson Log Home
14020 195th St N, Marine on St Croix

Eder School House
4442 Hadley Ave N, Oakdale, 

WCHS Latest Publications

Company K in the Border War

In 1916, Company K of the Stillwater National Guard was dispatched to the Mexican Border to defend against attacks from the famous Mexican rebel, Poncho Villa. Through letters and photographs from the WCHS collection, “Company K in the Border War” details the in-glamorous reality these Stillwater men faced while stationed in Texas.

This book recently won a Minnesota History Award for publications!!

Thru the Mill

Originally published in 1915, “Thru the Mill” was written by inmate number “4342”, George Bartlett, who served ten months in the old Stillwater Prison. This book is his account of life behind the stone walls of Minnesota’s most infamous prison.

 Want to help support your local history? Here’s your chance!

The Washington County Historical Society is the only county historical society in Minnesota that receives no annual assistance from their county.

We are 100% reliant on your generosity.

Thank you for helping us save our shared stories and history!