Welcome to Winona County Historical Society!
This 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 “Wing Prairie.” 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
Temporary Hours Change
While the exhibits are closed temporarily for a refresh (Dec–May), the fun is still on! Swing by The Museum Shop! Visit the rotating lobby art shows, book a rental space, or make an appointment in the archives. See updated hours for each space below:
Lobby Art Gallery & The Museum Shop
- STATUS: Open
- WHEN:10am – 4pm, DAILY
Laird Norton Library & Archives
- STATUS: Open
- WHEN: Mon – Wed, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Rental Spaces
- Open by booking
- STATUS: Closed
- WHEN: December 27 — June 2026
- For how long: These areas will reopen when exhibit updates are finished in June 2026.
A Farewell to Carrie
It is with both deep gratitude and heartfelt sadness that we share the news that our Executive Director, Carrie Johnson, will be stepping down for personal reasons this June after five and a half years of exceptional leadership at the Winona County Historical Society.
As she begins a new phase of her professional career, Carrie’s thanks goes out to the people who make up WCHS: “It has been a privilege to serve this organization and our community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the preservation and celebration of Winona County’s history during my tenure,” she says. “I remain confident in the Society’s bright future.”
For more about Carrie’s accomplishments and role, visit:
Participate
IN HISTORY
WCHS
VALUES
Active Learning
Respectful Representation
Transformative Storytelling
Inclusive Collaboration
Responsible Stewardship
Winona County Historical Society Capital Campaign
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.
