Ever wonder about the shimmering history of Lake Minnetonka? The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum stands before us. It is a portal into that past.
This museum is more than just a building. It is a repository of stories. These stories whisper of steamboats, amusement parks, and the lives of those who shaped this beautiful lake area.
Founded originally as Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society, the organization now known as the Lake Minnetonka Historical Society was formed in 2023. The consolidation included the Museum of Lake Minnetonka, the Wayzata Historical Society, and the Westonka Historical Society. The museum in Excelsior is one of the main places to discover the history of the lake.
Inside the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum, artifacts and exhibits await. They highlight Lake Minnetonka’s “glory years.” Imagine the excitement of the Excelsior Amusement Park. Learn about the legacy of Excelsior High School. Discover the stories of local businesses that thrived here. Don’t miss the exhibit on the famous Lake Minnetonka sailing vessel, the Onawa.
The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum also maintains historical archives. Thousands of local records are preserved. These archives are invaluable for researching family histories. You can also research buildings and houses in the area. Knowledgeable volunteers are ready to assist you. They can help you retrieve materials. Scans and photocopies are available for a fee.
But the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum offers more than just exhibits. The Society is committed to bringing history to life. One of their biggest priorities is the 1906 streetcar boat Minnehaha. They plan to return it to active operation on Lake Minnetonka. Imagine experiencing history firsthand on a floating museum.
The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society extends its reach beyond the museum walls. They conduct research at archives. They also have museums in Mound and Wayzata. They share the lake’s history through public programs. They also publish and sell books about the area’s history.
The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum actively engages with the community. It offers youth summer programs. These “camps” immerse young people in the history of the Lake Minnetonka area. What a fantastic way to connect future generations with their past.
So, as you explore the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum, remember that you’re not just looking at artifacts. You are connecting with the lives and experiences of those who came before us. Their stories are etched into the very landscape of Lake Minnetonka. They are waiting to be discovered. This museum ensures that their legacy will endure for generations to come.