We will be closed March 25-30 for exhibit installation

Closed March 25-30

Connecting people through the power of history and culture

Immerse yourself in programs designed to inspire.

Hops & History

Join us for a historic happy hour on the second Thursday of March, May, September, and November! Enjoy local craft beer while you listen to a discussion of historical topics that are dark, quirky, or just plain fun. Come for the beer, stay for the history!

Cost: Free for members, $10 for non-members.

Century Farms Program

In June of each year, we honor Stearns County families by designating their farms as Century Farms with the installation of commemorative markers. This program recognizes the long history of area farmers as stewards of the land and the tradition of passing down a way of life to family members.

St. Cloud Area Genealogists

The St. Cloud Area Genealogists meet the third Tuesday of the month – January-May and September-November – at the Stearns History Museum. Meetings start at 7 p.m. Cost: Free-will donation for nonmembers.

Civil War Roundtable

This group meets at 3 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month during the academic year at the Stearns History Museum. Each meeting focuses on a different Civil War topic, and is open to the public. Cost for nonmembers is usually a freewill offering.

Whippersnapper Hour

In September and November, children ages 7-13 can immerse themselves in the 19th century American Fur Trade with “Fur Trade Frenzy” and participate in an older radio show with “Dear Diary.”

Memory Writers

A writing group that meets twice a month on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 10 AM, Memory Writers provides both writing topics and the opportunity to share your work. This program is free to Museum Members, and $7 per meeting for non-members. Join in to polish your writing skills while telling your story.

Breakfast Club

Join us on the second Wednesday of every even-numbered month for coffee, donuts, and a historical talk! Topics range from pandemics to shaving cream, but no matter what, it’s sure to be fascinating. ($7 for nonmembers, free for members)

Discover Your Program

Programs at the Stearns History Museum have been created especially for visitors like you, who are as excited about history as we are. We’ve designed each one to be a unique experience where you can interact with our resources, our museum staff, and other like-minded participants.

These programs can be something you try once or look forward to each month. Explore our current program offerings below, and find dates for each one on our Calendar.

Exploring History & Culture in Central Minnesota: HMML Event Series

The Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML) presentations are part of the Exploring History & Culture in Central MN series, which is a partnership between Benton County Historical Society, Morrison County Historical Society, Stearns History Museum, and Sherburne History Center. There will be four presentations in all. Enjoy!

Field Trips & Guided Tours

The Stearns History Museum is a great destination for school groups and other groups interested in a guided tour through our exhibits. Our Program Curator can tailor our offerings to your specific age group, interests, time frame, or other need. Contact us directly to learn more.

Program Support

Programs at Stearns History Museum are created and managed by our internal staff, and funded by generous donations from community members like you.

Consider supporting our programs with a financial gift to the Stearns History Museum at any time of year. Thank you for your support.

There’s More to Explore

The Stearns History Museum hosts exciting events, exhibits, and research opportunities throughout the year. Be sure to take a look around and enjoy all we have to offer.

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