Memories in Miniature

People make and collect miniatures for many reasons.  Some preserved memories of family and community by carving wood.  Some made models to honor a time, a place, of people in the past.  Some used them to imagine what might have been.

These miniatures are rightly called “folk art,” the work of people with a passion for what they loved and a yen to create.  From Willard Gerhenbeck’s circus to Clifford Balder’s model of the Sakry farm in Dehulm; the U-control planes designed, built and flown by Robert Green, father of community leader Les Green; and the Metzroth’s showpiece -the Red River ox cart, visitors will be enchanted and amazed.

Exhibits

Two floors of exhibits provide the visitor with an entertaining learning experience.

Sam Pandolfo and the Pan Motor Company The Pan Motor Company is as legendary in St. Cloud as is its owner Sam Pandolfo.  For a brief 3 years from 1917 to 1920, a major manufacturing plant and company town exisited in the area.  See one of the Pan cars and learn of Sam Pandolfo, his rise to fame, and his fall to prison.

Flowing Through Time  Investigate the natural world and explore the impact of water use as Stearns County was settled and grew to be the vibrant community of today.

On Solid Ground  The granite industry has had great impact on the development of the area.  Buildings from all over the U.S. have Stearns County granite on their facade and in their hallways.

Artifind  Love the children's books I Spy? Then you will love Artifind.  There are 5 settings with rhymes and things to find.

The World's Best and Finest takes a look at the gadgets that have changed our lives.

Uncle Sam's New Deal

A new exhibit opening June 8th from the Minnesota Historical Society. 

During the Great Depression programs brought relief to America's poor and helped stabilize its economy.  Find out how at "Uncle Sam's New Deal," a new exhibit from the Minnesota Historical Society - June 8 - August 4th.