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Norman County Minnesota Historical Society

Ruby Miller, Curator
RR
Ada, MN 56510
218-784-4756

The Norman County Historical Society was incorporated in 1958 and opened its first museum that year. Society artifacts are housed in several sites in Ada as well as the recently acquired building in Shelly. There are over 10,000 relics and antiques depicting the world of yesteryear and the life then in the buildings owned by the Historical Society. Thousands of visitors from all over the United States, parts of Canada, and many foreign countries have registered at the museums and Village.

The Norman County Historical Society feels there is a definite obligation to help in the process of preserving our history, not only for the present generation but also for the future members of our society. Also, we have a commitment to the many people who have in good faith, contributed items believing that reflections of our early history would be made available for all interested persons.

In the past, much effort was put forth by various citizens of the county; and as a result, we have a great collection of items of historical value. Times, however are changing; and the losses due to the Flood of 1997 have necessitated a whole new perspective on what is necessary for us to continue with a program to serve Norman County.

In 2000, the Historical Society took on the project of building a new museum to be located on the grounds of the Prairie Village. This building would allow for an exhibit area that meets the needs and demands of today's society. We need the support of many people in order to complete this project by June 2001, the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Norman County Seat.

All donations are welcome. Buy a log to support the new museum. One log $125 (Loggers), Two logs $250 (Pioneers), Four logs $500 (Associates), Eight Logs $1,000 (Developers) Twenty Logs $2500 (Boomers), Forty Logs $5000 (Classics). All donors will be recognized on a plaque. Contributions may be sent to:

Norman County Historical Society
Lyle D. Nelson Treasurer
PO Box 303
Ada, MN 56510-0303
Memorial Educational Museum

Memorial Educational Museum

 

The Memorial Educational Museum, which opened in October 1973, is housed in the former Congregational Church. It is located on the corner of 1st Street East and 2nd Avenue East in Ada. The building was planned by a Boston architect and built with Ada brick. The bell was sent from Boston. The church was heavily damaged in the flood of '97 which resulted in the loss of many historical treasures.

 

The Prairie Village is a living museum of preserved buildings used in early days. the Village is host to machinery, furnishings, tools, and other articles used by the pioneers. The houses, churches, depot, and the machinery exhibit building all bring back to us the days of long ago. The Pioneer Village is located on the Norman County Fairgrounds . The new Historical and Research Center is now open. The hours are Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. and Monday 10a.m.- 4p.m. Pioneer Village

Prairie Village

 

The Historical Society opened its new museum in the old Shelly School in 1999.It is in the process of becoming an addition to what will be known as the Red River History Museum of Norman County. This will fit in well with the national effort to make U.S. Highway 75 the Historic King of Trails.

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This site is maintained by Colleen Goltz with
the dedication and assistance of the
 
Norman County Genealogy Society.
Last modified Friday February 04, 2005