Cook County Historical Society

Over the past 99 years, the Cook County Historical Society has received over 35,000 photographs and negatives, 5400 historical objects, over 10,000 archival documents, 1767 library items, and close to 400 works of art, all of which showcase, preserve, and share the stories of the people and places of Cook County and Grand Portage. 

We do not take the responsibility of evaluating, caring for, and preserving these items and collections lightly. Artifacts help us learn about a culture, share personal stories and history, and provide visual imagery that takes us back to a specific place and time. They bring history alive and help us bridge a connection to a place, person, or thing. 

The most effective way to preserve artifacts is through regular maintenance and prevention practices. However, over time, items can naturally degrade (even with proper care). When this happens, specialists from outside organizations are hired to conduct preservation work and care. Additionally, work needs to be done to ensure that items, such as audio items recorded on outdated technology, aren’t lost. 

This past spring, Aliya Marxen, Johnson Heritage Post Gallery Manager and Interim Director, completed a full audit of our historical art collection. This winter, board member Margaret Hedstrom will begin an audit of the historical items at the History Museum. Currently, Martha Marnocha is transcribing and digitizing original source collections of VHS and audio cassettes, thanks in part to funds provided by the State of Minnesota from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund through the Minnesota Historical Society.

As we approach our 100th anniversary in 2025, we are asking you to join us in funding the preservation and maintenance of targeted items that need our care, to ensure that they are around to help us share the stories, build connections, and showcase the history of the area for the next 100 years. 

Make your gift today, and remember to share on social media, drop an email to a friend, or of course, call someone and share your story. It helps us all build community together.

Thank you for your support!