Discover Oral History

What’s an Oral History?

Webster’s Dictionary explains Oral History as “a recording containing information about the past obtained from in-depth interviews concerning personal experiences, recollections, and reflections.” Simple.

However, simple does not mean unimportant. An individual’s life experience offers a singular perspective on events in the past. Professors, historians, and authors reference such narratives as primary sources for their research, writings, exhibits, documentary films, and other publications that direct how we interact with the past. Winona County Historical Society (WCHS) uses oral histories – both recordings and transcripts – to bolster the county’s historical record and inform the exhibits at the History Center museum. People’s encounters with Winona County are key to understanding where we are today, how we got here, and where we want to go in the future. And there’s a place for you too in our rich collage of history.

Why Record an Oral History?

Families move, memories fade, or community knowledge-keepers pass away. That’s why it’s imperative to give Winona county residents a chance to share their life stories with us now. The process can benefit you personally as well: for some, it gives a peace of mind knowing their voices have been heard; for others, recording their histories fulfills a personal obligation to share a viewpoint with those who will follow; yet more people find satisfaction in the fact that their legacy will live on long after they are gone.

How Do I Record an Oral History?

If you or someone you know know would like to record an oral history, contact the Curator of Collections and schedule an interview. We have a lovely Oral History Lab complete with comfy chairs, historic wall art, and friendly staff to put you at ease. Our trained interviewers guide you through a conversation-style interview that helps you summon up details from the memories you’d like to share on your recording. If you would rather not leave your home, an interviewer may be able to come to you.

Lindsay Stussy, Curator of Collections

Email: curator@winonahistory.org

Phone: (507) 454-2723 ext. 4

What Happens to My Recording After I’m Finished?

Staff at WCHS backs up the digital file for safekeeping following your interview. After we receive your review, approval, and deed of gift, your recording and its transcription become an official part of the WCHS collections to be used according to your wishes. Your story can potentially help researchers, students, or other interested parties to learn about Winona County’s historical record.

How Do I Support the Oral History Program?

To support the Oral History Program, consider becoming a volunteer interviewer or interviewee. Contact the Curator of Collections. She will provide you with training that resourcers that hgihlight some standard practices to help produce historically valuable and ethically conducted interviews.

Donations to the History Center also aid us in continuing the work of the Oral History Program. Give online at winonahistory.org/support/donate, mail a check to WCHS at 160 Johnson Street, Winona, or call (507) 454-2723 ext. 0.

Narrator: Laurie Lucas

Laurie Lucas was interviewed as a part of the WCHS Oral History Project on February 6, 2024. The interview was conducted by Mary Farrell, volunteer interviewer. Topics covered in this interview include Laurie’s personal history, growing up in Winona, the Laird Norton Company, her role at the Winona County Historical Society, and the History Center addition. Press play below to listen to a short clip of Laurie’s interview!