Current Events
Looking for things to do in Rochester? The History Center offers a variety of events all year round throughout Olmsted County. All events are listed at Central Standard Time (CST) unless otherwise stated. As a non-profit, our events are only possible with the support of the community! If you would like to sponsor an event, call the History Center at 507-282-9447, or contact us by email.
For members tickets, please keep in mind that your discount only applies to the same number of tickets that your membership applies to. For example, if you have an Individual membership, you may get one ticket at the discounted rate. All other tickets should be purchased at the full rate. If you have the Individual Plus membership, you are welcome to purchase two tickets at the discounted rate and all other tickets should be purchased at the regular rate. Thank you.
Event Key:
 
History
Center Events
2024 Events Coming
Storytime Fridays at the History Center
July 26th, 2024
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10:00 am - 11:00 am
Bring the kids to the History Center to enjoy storytime while you enjoy museum time, a walk along our beautiful grounds or time in our archives all for FREE. Encourage lifelong readers by enriching the lives of young learners with books, crafts and playtime! SPECIAL THANKS to Olmsted Medical Center for their generous support of our educational programs.
Gather 'Round with Steve Glischinski - by Zoom
August 1st, 2024
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7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Steve is a correspondent for Trains Magazine and is the author of several books on railroading including Regional Railroads of the Midwest, Burlington Northern and its Heritage, Minnesota Railroads: A Photographic History, 1940-2012, and Santa Fe Railroad. An engaging and humorous presenter, Steve will share his vast knowledge and imagery of railroads, as well as answer questions from the crowd on August 1st at 7pm at the History Center. This program is offered both in person and by Zoom, be sure to choose the registration that fits you best.
Gather 'Round with Steve Glischinski
August 1st, 2024
![](/img/icons/clock-icon.png)
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Steve is a correspondent for Trains Magazine and is the author of several books on railroading including Regional Railroads of the Midwest, Burlington Northern and its Heritage, Minnesota Railroads: A Photographic History, 1940-2012, and Santa Fe Railroad. An engaging and humorous presenter, Steve will share his vast knowledge and imagery of railroads, as well as answer questions from the crowd on August 1st at 7pm at the History Center. This program is offered both in person and by Zoom, be sure to choose the registration that fits you best.
Storytime Fridays at the History Center
August 2nd, 2024
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10:00 am - 11:00 am
Bring the kids to the History Center to enjoy storytime while you enjoy museum time, a walk along our beautiful grounds or time in our archives all for FREE. Encourage lifelong readers by enriching the lives of young learners with books, crafts and playtime! SPECIAL THANKS to Olmsted Medical Center for their generous support of our educational programs.
DAYS of YESTERYEAR
August 10th, 2024
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8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Step onto the Ralph Stoppel grounds and be transported to a bygone era! Witness the marvels of yesteryear with thrilling live demonstrations. Check out the steam tractors, threshing of oats or participate in hands on activities like broom making and woodworking. There is something for everyone on August 10-11, 2024, 8am-5pm thanks to Mechanical History Round Table!
Buttons are $10 at the gate or get one in advance at the History Center for $8 or 2 for $15!
Find a full list of activities HERE
Watch the DOY video HERE
DAYS of YESTERYEAR
August 11th, 2024
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8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Step onto the Ralph Stoppel grounds and be transported to a bygone era! Witness the marvels of yesteryear with thrilling live demonstrations. Check out the steam tractors, threshing of oats or participate in hands on activities like broom making and woodworking. There is something for everyone on August 10-11, 2024, 8am-5pm thanks to Mechanical History Round Table!
Buttons are $10 at the gate or get one in advance at the History Center for $8 or 2 for $15!
Find a full list of activities HERE
Watch the DOY video HERE
History Theatre Mini-Camp
August 12th, 2024
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9:00 am - 11:00 am
Do your young ones dream of a life on Broadway? Are they interested in history or old barns? Scene stealers or drama queens under your roof? We have a perfect experience for them! The History Center of Olmsted County would like to invite kids ages 6-10 to sign up for our History Theatre 3 day Mini-Camp featuring the story of the Stoppel brothers. Spend a few hours a day playing theatre games and preparing for a history-filled performance for friends and family.
Participants will meet each day at the History Center where they be introduced to the fascinating story of George and Joseph Stoppel. Director Susy Olsen will take them on an adventure learning the basics of performance.
Space is limited, so sign up now.
Monday August 12 from 9-11am
Tuesday August 13 from 9-11am
Wednesday August 14th from 2 -5pm
ending with a final performance at 5:30 for friends and family!
**price includes water, snacks and a light dinner prior to the performance on Wednesday.
Oakwood Cemetery Walk
September 21st, 2024
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10:00 am - 3:00 pm
History buffs and curious minds, assemble! Embark on a captivating journey through time with the Oakwood Cemetery Walk in Rochester, Minnesota, on September 21, 2024.
Step back in time and explore the fascinating stories of Rochester's prominent figures as we wander through historic Oakwood Cemetery. Tours will begin often from 10am - 2pm, so meet our knowledgeable guides at the Healy Chapel, where they will bring the past to life, sharing tales of: Lucy Wilder, Daisy and Henry Plummer, James and Birdie Reid, and MORE!
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