Nicollet County Historical Society

Super Snow Saturday
2024-02-03 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Free Admission Day
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Explore the exhibits, make farm animal masks with kids, and take a walk around the historic Traverse des Sioux trail.
Babe
2:00-3:30 PM
Join us for a pig-ture perfect screening of Babe – the tale of a pig with big dreams and an even bigger heart. Bring your snacks and let Babe’s journey from the farm to fame warm your hearts.

NCHS Board of Directors meeting
2024-02-26 16:30 - 18:00, 2024-04-22 16:30 - 18:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
The public is invited to join the meeting of the Nicollet County Historical Society Board of Directors. Materials are available at the meeting or upon request.

Film Series | Groundbreakers
2024-03-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Film Description
Through the eyes of women athletes who changed the system, the new two-hour documentary Groundbreakers celebrates 50 years of female excellence in sports. Hosted by sports icon and champion of equality Billie Jean King, the film weaves together the first-hand stories of eight icons to discuss how Title IX and their own achievements forever changed the course of women’s sports.
The interviews pair an athlete at the top of her game today with an athlete whose achievements helped pave the way for those who followed. The pairings include Billie Jean King and flag football star Diana Flores; basketball legend Nancy Lieberman and Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim; soccer star and World Cup winner Julie Foudy and Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee; and track and field world-record holder Jackie Joyner-Kersee with four-time tennis Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka.
These far-reaching and dynamic conversations showcase the perseverance, pain, and progress of women who dared to challenge the system, defy conventional norms and change the games we love forever. Groundbreakers celebrates the advancements of women in sports and society, while also revealing the generational mentorship and community building that has fueled the progress made alongside the ongoing pursuit of equality for women everywhere.
1h 55 min. NR
<<WATCH THE EXTENDED TRAILER>>
The Nicollet County Historical Society and Saint Peter Community and Family Education present our fifteenth season of documentary films! The public is welcome to join us for these free films at the Treaty Site History Center.

NCHS Annual Meeting
2024-03-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
EVENT POSTPONED
NCHS Annual Meeting
Sunday, March 24, 2024
Doors open at 1:00 PM
Business Meeting starts at 1:30 PM
Program to follow
Special Guest Speaker
Rachael Hanel
Gain a deeper understanding of Camilla Hall, a Saint Peter resident whose notoriety stems from her association with the Symbionese Liberation Army. To accompany Rachael Hanel’s talk, the exhibit More Than a Headline: A Closer Look at the Art and Life of Camilla Hall opens at the meeting. It showcases several of Camilla’s prints and provides an overview of Camilla’s life—from her girlhood in St. Peter to her move to Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and ultimately to Berkeley, where her fate was sealed.
RSVPs are required by March 20, 2024.
The meeting is open to the public. There is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be provided.

Film Series | New Eye on the Universe
2024-04-04 14:00 - 15:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
In July 2022, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope released its first images, looking further back in time than ever before to show our universe in stunningly beautiful detail. But that was just the beginning: With tons of new data and spectacular images flooding in, Webb is allowing scientists to peer deep in time to try to answer some of astronomy’s biggest questions. When – and how – did the first stars and galaxies form? And can we see the fingerprints of life in the atmospheres of distant worlds–or even within our own solar system? 54 minutes. NR
<<WATCH THE TRAILER>>
The Nicollet County Historical Society and Saint Peter Community and Family Education present our fifteenth season of documentary films! The public is welcome to join us for these free films at the Treaty Site History Center.

Author Talk with Cindy Wilson: Vignettes from my Books Featuring the St. Peter area, 1879-1881
2024-04-11 14:00 - 15:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Wilson will introduce us to the amazing family of railroad surveyor Charles Wood Irish, along with stories from her new book that have an area connection. Her talk will then talk about the Hard Winter of 1880-81, centered on Nicollet County. Join us for this engaging talk!
Cost to attend is $7.00 per adult and $5.00 per NCHS member.

NCHS ANNUAL MEETING
2024-04-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
NCHS Annual Meeting
Tuesday, April 23, 2024
5:00-7:00 p.m.
RSVPs are requested by April 19, 2024
Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
Business Meeting starts at 5:30 p.m.
Program tentatively scheduled for 6:00 p.m.
The meeting is open to the public. There is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be provided.
<<DOWNLOAD MEETING MATERIALS>>
Special Guest Speaker
Rachael Hanel
Gain a deeper understanding of Camilla Hall, a Saint Peter resident whose notoriety stems from her association with the Symbionese Liberation Army.
To accompany Hanel’s talk, the exhibit More Than a Headline: A Closer Look at the Art and Life of Camilla Hall is on display at the meeting. It showcases several of Camilla’s prints and provides an overview of Camilla’s life—from her girlhood in St. Peter to her move to Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and ultimately to Berkeley, where her fate was sealed.

Film Series | Leave it to Beavers
2024-05-02 14:00 - 15:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
A growing number of scientists, conservationists, and grass-roots environmentalists have come to regard beavers as overlooked tools when it comes to reversing the disastrous effects of global warming and worldwide water shortages. Once valued for their fur or hunted as pests, these industrious rodents are seen in a new light through the eyes of this novel assembly of beaver enthusiasts and “employers” who reveal the ways in which the presence of beavers can transform and revive landscapes. Using their skills as natural builders and brilliant hydro-engineers, beavers are being recruited to accomplish everything from finding water in a bone-dry desert to recharging water tables and coaxing life back into damaged lands. 60 minutes. NR.
<<WATCH THE PREVIEW>>
The Nicollet County Historical Society and Saint Peter Community and Family Education present our fifteenth season of documentary films! The public is welcome to join us for these free films at the Treaty Site History Center.

Strengthening Community Through Historic Preservation
2024-05-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
May is Historic Preservation Month! The 2024 Preservation Month theme is “People Saving Places” to shine the spotlight on everyone doing the work of saving places—in ways big and small. To recognize Preservation Month, the Nicollet County Historical Society is hosting a presentation by Michael Koop from the State Historic Preservation Office on Thursday, May 16, at 6:00 p.m., entitled “Strengthening Community Through Historic Preservation.” Historic preservation involves:

Recognizing places from our past that are important to the American people.
Caring for them.
Using them to enrich our lives.

These special places reveal every aspect of our country’s origins and development. Historic places help us understand who we are and the meaning of our accomplishments and shortcomings. Preservation, above all, protects and maintains our past for future generations. Efforts to conserve historic resources are founded on the involvement of many individuals and organizations, including our local community. The real action in historic preservation is at the local level since the results of survey, planning, and evaluation work must be integrated into other broad planning efforts. Hear about the variety of work done by Minnesota’s Heritage Preservation Commissions to create a range of tools to educate and reach people and to help conserve important historic properties across the state.

Cox House Self-guided Tours
2024-06-08 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-06-22 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-07-06 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-07-20 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-08-03 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-08-17 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-08-31 13:00 - 16:00 | Cox House, 500 N. Washington Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Step back in time and experience the Victorian era with a visit to the Cox House.
This unique historic home offers self-guided tours every other Saturday from June 8 to August 31, allowing you to explore at your own pace. No reservations are required.
Upon arrival, you will receive an introduction and written guide to help you navigate the Cox House. Once inside, you can immerse yourself in the Victorian age and feel as though the family has merely stepped away, allowing you to see how they lived and what their homes looked like.
This summer, the Cox House also presents the captivating exhibition “Marian Anderson: A Brush with Nature.” Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world through Anderson’s vibrant landscapes, charming wildlife paintings, and even delightful food art, all displayed within the historic setting.
Admission: Free will donations are welcome to help us support this historic property
Location: In St. Peter, Minnesota, at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Skaro Street.
Accessibility: The Cox House is not fully accessible. There are steps and uneven grounds.

NCHS at the Fair!
2024-08-08 12:00 - 20:00, 2024-08-09 12:00 - 20:00, 2024-08-10 10:00 - 20:00, 2024-08-11 11:00 - 15:00 | Nicollet County Fairgrounds, 400 W. Union Street, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Join NCHS at the Nicollet County Fair! We’re in a new location in the Thompson Exhibit Hall next to the Grandstand. Stop by to see what’s on display and chat with friendly staff and volunteers.

Community Affairs on KNUJ Radio
2024-08-27 09:15 - 21:35, 2024-09-24 09:15 - 21:35, 2024-10-22 09:15 - 21:35 | KNUJ Radio
Make sure to mark your calendar to listen to KNUJ Radio on the fourth Tuesday of every month (except December) at 9:15 am for Community Affairs. During this segment, NCHS staff will provide insights into the latest happenings within the Society.
<<CLICK TO LISTEN>>

Film Series | The War on Disco
2024-09-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
The War on Disco explores the culture war that erupted over the spectacular rise of disco music. Originating in underground Black and gay clubs, disco had unseated rock as America’s most popular music by the late 1970s. But many diehard rock fans viewed disco, with its repetitive beat and culture that emphasized pleasure, as shallow and superficial. A story that’s about much more than music, The War on Disco explores how the powerful anti-disco backlash revealed a cultural divide that to some seemed to be driven by racism and homophobia. The hostility came to a head on July 12, 1979, when a riot broke out at “Disco Demolition Night” during a baseball game in Chicago.
The film’s runtime is 60 min.
Trailer: https://www.pbs.org/…/americ…/features/war-disco-teaser/
The Nicollet County Historical Society and Saint Peter Community and Family Education present our fall lineup of documentary films! The public is welcome to join us for these free films at the Treaty Site History Center.

Shadows at the Crossing: Spirits of Old Traverse des Sioux
2024-10-04 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Traverse des Sioux, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Step back in time with Shadows at the Crossing: Spirits of Old Traverse des Sioux, an immersive outdoor lantern-lit tour that brings the history of Minnesota Territory to life.
Traverse des Sioux has a rich and complex history. It once served as a crucial gathering spot along the Minnesota River. Following the 1851 Treaty of Traverse des Sioux, the area became a bustling town. However, its prosperity was short-lived, and today, little remains of the once-thriving community.
On this unique walking tour, you’ll encounter the spirits of those who lived during this pivotal era. Hear their stories of courage, resilience, conflict, and cooperation, and gain a deeper understanding of Minnesota’s heritage.
Tickets:

Adults: $10
Children (ages 8 and up): $5
Families: $20
Nicollet County and Minnesota Historical Society members: 20% discount

Embark on this unforgettable journey through Minnesota’s past. Get your tickets now.

Additional Information:

Check-in Details: Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time to check-in.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, water and snacks, a flashlight (optional), camera (optional).
Disclaimers: The event will take place outdoors, rain or shine. If inclement weather is anticipated, the tour may be moved indoors. Ticket holders will be notified of any changes. Please note that the weather in Minnesota can vary greatly in early October. Dress appropriately for the expected conditions. While we strive to provide a safe and enjoyable experience, we cannot be held responsible for any accidents or injuries that may occur during the tour.

Cancellation:

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 24 hours’ notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.

Trick-or-Treat at the Cox House
2024-10-31 17:00 - 19:00 | Cox House, 500 N. Washington Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
Families are invited to come to trick-or-treat at the Cox House.

Film Series | A Squirrel's Guide to Success
2024-11-07 14:00 - 15:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
The squirrel family, from tiny chipmunks to big prairie dogs, is one of the most widespread on Earth, so what is the secret to their success? There are almost 300 species of squirrels that can glide through the air, outwit rattlesnakes, and survive the coldest temperatures of any mammal. Uncover the extraordinary abilities of these cheeky nut lovers as a filmmaker puts their problem-solving to the test on a specially designed obstacle course. Join some of the world’s top squirrel scientists who are making groundbreaking discoveries – from the brainy fox squirrel who can remember the location of 9,000 nuts, to the acrobatic gray squirrel whose tree-top leaps are the basis of new designs in robotics. And see the world through the eyes of an orphan red squirrel called Billy, as he grows up and develops all the skills he will need to be released back to the wild.
Runtime is 60 minutes.

The Nicollet County Historical Society and Saint Peter Community and Family Education present a new season of documentary films! These documentaries inform, challenge ideas, and create conversation. Films are shown at the Nicollet County Historical Society and are free and open to the public.

Film Series | McCarthy
2024-11-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Nicollet County Historical Society – Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Avenue, Saint Peter, MN, 56082, United States
McCarthy chronicles the rise and fall of Joseph McCarthy, the Wisconsin Senator who would test the limits of American decency and democracy. Free of restraint or oversight, he conducted a crusade against those he accused of being Communists and enemies of the state, a chilling campaign marked by groundless accusations, bullying intimidation, grandiose showmanship, and cruel victimization. Finally, after years in the headlines, he was brought down by his own excesses and overreach. He died a broken man, but his name lived on. For more than half a century, it has been linked to an all-too-familiar phenomenon, the modern-day witch hunt we call McCarthyism.
The film’s runtime is 120 minutes
Trailer: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/mccarthy/#part01
The Nicollet County Historical Society and Saint Peter Community and Family Education present our fall lineup of documentary films! The public is welcome to join us for these free films at the Treaty Site History Center.
