The Steele County Historical Society (SCHS) was established in 1949 to preserve the history of Steele County. In 1962 with the arrival of the SACO Church, the Village of Yesteryear was established. Now with 15 structures, the latest acquisition being the Standard Oil Carriage House, the Village has become a landmark in the county and a historic treasure with visitors from all over the United States and many other countries.

We welcome any volunteers that are available to help with events or tours. We can always use tour guides, building hosts, cleaners, textile sewers or cookie bakers. We will work with you to find a job to accommodate your time and talents. Call our volunteer coordinator at 507-451-1420 or use our online contact form.

Planned giving to Steele County Historical Society PDF

If you are interested in donating an artifact, open the pdf below to view our guidelines.
Steele County Historical Acquisition Guidelines PDF

The Boardwalk at the Village of Yesteryear offers you a unique opportunity to make a contribution to the Society, and to have your family, friend, or business remembered at the Village. The boardwalk connects the village buildings and circles the flagpole in the middle of the Village. Names are engraved on the boards, and if they ever need to be replaced it is done without any further expense to you.

Please consider a boardwalk for yourself, or as a gift. If you are giving the boardwalk as a gift we will be happy to make a gift certificate for you to present to the recipient. All proceeds from boardwalk sales benefit SCHS and help further the mission of the Society.

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