Who knew that one historical pageant could set the stage for 90 years of local history sharing? As crazy as that may seem, this is the story of Winona County Historical Society (WCHS). On June 21st, 2025, WCHS turns 90 years old. The idea for this organization blossomed from a community gathered around history and county residents dedicated to its preservation.
History Reawakens in Minnesota
Historical pageants across Minnesota in the 1930s brought the state’s past back into public view. Whitewater State Park near St. Charles, MN, hosted the 1933 event that boosted the county’s curiosity and interaction with history once again. Around 30,000 onlookers gathered to soak in the sights and sounds of Minnesota history recreated in the great outdoors. Newspapers marketed the event as a whole-family affair focused on educating state residents and “bringing Minnesota history to Minnesotans.”
Winona County Prioritizes History
If nothing else, the pageant turnout proved one thing – area residents took history seriously. Influential figures like Mildred Sebo of Lewiston, MN, gave structure and reality to the people’s feelings. She proposed the creation of an organization to educate communities and preserve the area’s storied past: the Winona County Historical Society. On June 21st, 1935, Sebo’s hard work paid off. The June 22nd, 1935 Winona Republican-Herald read, “The Winona County Historical Society was permanently organized with William Codman as president at a meeting last night in the courtroom of the court house.” In that very meeting, Sebo and her fellow newly-sworn officers from across the county adopted a constitution. They founded WCHS and began the search for a physical place to house history. After years of growth and a series of moves, WCHS found its permanent home in the historic National Guard Armory on Winona’s Johnson Street in 1972-73.
It’s clear that Sebo and the pageant-goers of the 1930s understood both the urgency of gathering county stories and the sense in using a historical institution to unite and strengthen other community organizations. Though we share Minnesota history from different perspectives and among larger groups of people today, the object of the Society has remained much the same: to bring Winona County history to Winona County residents and visitors, and to connect them to the broader community. That is a goal worth celebrating!
Celebrate With Winona County Historical Society
We welcome you to commemorate 90 years of local history with us on March 6 from 7-9pm at a special Linked to Local History fundraiser party! We’ll host you in the Laird Norton Addition. WCHS added this area of the museum in 2010, and it testifies to the Society’s continued success and value. You’ll enjoy party highlights like decadent dessert and a cash bar by Muddled Thyme. Make your own “link to local history” while you bid at the live auction. Purchase a permanent bracelet at the “Get Linked” Bracelet Bar by Jovy Rockey Jewelry or compete for the Wine Ring Toss grand prize. Lengthen the Donation Balloon Chain in support of WCHS…if we reach $900, our community sponsors will match the amount! The event is proudly sponsored by Peerless.
If you’re interested in participating in Winona County Historical Society as a member, sign up at the event or visit winonahistory.org/membership. Donations to the History Center also aid us in continuing the work of preserving local history. Give online at winonahistory.org/support/donate, mail a check to WCHS at 160 Johnson Street, Winona, or call 507-454-2723 ext. 0.
Photo: Onlookers gathered at the 1933 historical pageant in Whitewater State Park near St. Charles, MN.
