KSMQ Farm Connections ep. 1312
Executive Director Wayne Gannaway gives us some historical perspective.
Our History and Organization
The Olmsted County Historical Society was established in 1926 by Burton Eaton and several other founding members with the intention of collecting and preserving the history of Olmsted County. Our first museum opened in the basement of the Rochester Public Library in 1940. In 1959, we moved into what had been the Bethel English Lutheran Church, but soon outgrew the space. We then built a new museum building on land purchased in southwest Rochester in 1972, where we have been collecting, preserving, and educating ever since. In 2006, the Olmsted County Historical Society began doing business as the History Center of Olmsted County (HCOC).
The Olmsted County Historical Society dba History Center of Olmsted County is an independent, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization governed by members via a Board of Director. Each year we, together with our enthusiastic volunteers, provide presentations, educational and outreach programs, special events, museum exhibits, and more. We currently own and operate two historic buildings and two historic farmsteads, in addition to operating seasonal tours of Mayowood Mansion.
Our Vision
To become a gathering place for the broader community that inspires and encourages the exploration of history.
Our Mission
Give people of all ages and backgrounds access and opportunity to learn about the past through interpretive programs and exhibits, research, publications and events.
Our vision and mission statements guide our efforts each and every day by outlining the History Center’s objective and purpose. We are committed to fulfilling these statements and providing the best possible value and experience to members and visitors alike.
Staff & Board Members
A strong and healthy board-staff partnership provides flexible and resilient leadership that contributes positively to the organization’s overall impact. Here at the History Center of Olmsted County we have regular check-ins between staff and board that allows for open and effective communication that promotes trust and respect. We have a strong working relationship that cultivates commitment. Our organization promotes a healthy relationship that enables growth and the ability to work through issues at every level.
Staff
Board Members
Christine Rule
President
Tom Leimer
Vice President
Eric Andringa
Secretary
Linda Willihnganz
Treasurer
Andrew Coenen
Doug Boese
Roger Stahl
Sam Gill
Kyle Benish
Mark Thein
Daniel Dogo-Esekie
Kirk Schumacher
Employment & Internship Opportunities
We want you! If you have an interest in history and want to work hands on with museum and archival artifacts, check out our employment and internship opportunities below. Click on the links for position descriptions. Unless otherwise noted, please complete an application and email to: services@olmstedhistory.com.
or send by mail to:
History Center of Olmsted County
1195 West Circle Drive SW
Rochester, MN 55902
The History Center of Olmsted County provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
News & Information
Keep up-to-date with the latest news and information about the History Center of Olmsted County. Here you’ll find our newsletter and other History Center announcements, links to news articles and videos about us, as well as information about our business activities, including our annual report and transparency and financial disclosure.
News Links
Publications & Reports
Latest Posts
History Center 990 Tax Form
Even though tax-exempt nonprofits do not pay federal taxes, they do have to file an information form with the IRS. That form is called a 990. Having to file the 990 makes sure that nonprofits conduct their business in a way that is consistent with their public responsibilities.
LED Light Conversion
Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the History Center of Olmsted County for the LED Light Conversion project located in Rochester, Minnesota. Sealed bids/proposals for the project will be received until 12:00 PM CST on February 5, 2021. The bids shall be delivered to History Center of Olmsted County, 1195 West Circle Drive SW, Rochester, MN 55902. Bids received after 12:00 PM CST will be returned unopened. Bids shall be valid for a period of 90 days after the scheduled closing time for receiving bids. Bids must be submitted in accordance with the requirements of the documents.
Bidders shall make arrangements with Kevin Whaley Collections Manager to visit the project site to obtain first-hand knowledge of existing conditions.
The last day that questions will be answered by the committee is Friday, January 29, 2021.