Welcome to Winona County Historical Society!
Our city and county derived their names from “Winuŋna” (wee-NEW-nuh), a Dakota descriptive word meaning “first-born who is a daughter.” Over the centuries, writers recorded the name as Wenonah, Weenona, and Wynona. Others called this area “Wabasha’s Prairie,” “The Island City,” or “Keoxa.” The trail of names and spellings hints that this place along the Mississippi River means many different things to many different people. We invite you to discover what it means to you.
Pictured above: Noteworthy moments in Winona County’s history frame the figure of the Dakota woman Winuŋna, the area’s namesake. Located in the Winona County History Center.
History Center
HIGHLIGHTS
The History of Newfoundland & Its People
April 24th, 2025 | 7PM – 8PM
Newfoundland and Labrador are the most easterly province in Canada, and the strait of Belle Isle separates the Island of Newfoundland from the mainland of North America.
Storyteller Taff Roberts, while on a Newfoundland Walkabout in 2004, became fascinated with its people and history. In this free Cultural Connections talk, he will share with you what he has learned about this fascinating island.
(Sign Language Interpreter available for this event.)
Participate
IN HISTORY
History Is
PRESENT
Active
Learning
Respectful Representation
Transformative Storytelling
Inclusive Collaboration
Responsible Stewardship
Winona County Historical Society Capital Campaign 2024
Together, we will build a cultural destination that not only stimulates economic growth but also provides a space where people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate the diverse tapestry of the human past. We invite you to join us on this remarkable journey towards a brighter and more inspired future.
Become a Member
Members support the work of WCHS and also enjoy these great benefits:
- Receive 6 issues of The Argus bimonthly newsletter filled with articles, features, & news.
- Enjoy free admission to WCHS museums & archives
- Claim discounts in the History Center Shop, facility rentals, event & class tickets.
