Steele County Historical Society: History Center Project

History Center Project Fund

New History Center Plans Make Their Debut

By Laura Resler

The long time dream of a History Center for Steele County residents and visitors is rapidly moving toward becoming a reality. After many months of planning, studying, public input and discussion, a site plan and architectural concepts for the proposed History Center are complete! The Building Committee, comprised of SCHS Board Members, staff, and volunteers met many times over the past year to define the scope of the building. In June, a selection committee chose Kane and Johnson Architects of Rochester to begin the design process. “We are thrilled with the design of the new History Center. It is sure to be a destination building that the entire County can be proud of. It incorporates all of the features that we feel are necessary to do justice to our mission of making Steele County history available and accessible to all.” said SCHS Director Laura Resler. Soon, the County Commissioners will review the plans for their final approval.

Above: The front entrance of the History Center.

The new, 19,000 square foot building will feature a multi-purpose public area that will be used for education, meetings, and events. This area will be made available to the public. “One of the goals in developing the History Center was to have it be a place that could be used by County residents for functions other than those hosted by SCHS. Our first priority is to have the building serve as a history center but, we are also committed to having the building be a county-wide resource for other organizations that may need the space to host their activities or events.” said Resler. The fully accessible building will also provide the much needed, climate controlled, archival and artifact storage space, a genealogy and research Library, administrative and volunteer areas, both permanent and temporary display space, a catering kitchen, gift shop, visitor orientation area, and room for expanded technology.

Above: The Site Plan for Fairground's Park

The building's location in Fairgrounds Park will offer a connection to the Village of Yesteryear, but will allow the building’s unique design and function to stand alone. The design features two entrances, one which faces Austin Road, and another that will be linked to the Village with a walkway that will feature informational history “kiosks”. Through the use of extensive window glazing, visitors will be able to enjoy lighted displays from the outside even when the building is closed. A tall atrium will offer dramatic views of artifacts on display, and welcome guests as they arrive at the Center. A patio area for outdoor functions and extensive landscaping will create an ambiance suitable to the park’s setting. In an effort to conserve both environmental and monetary resources, the building will be constructed with an emphasis on meeting the requirements for LEED certification. LEED is a green building rating system developed in the year 2000 by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED certified projects blend environmental, economic, and occupant-orientated performance. They cost less to maintain and operate, are energy and water efficient, and are healthier and safer for the occupants.

A campaign is underway to secure funding for the History Center. The Lange Family has offered a $1 million dollar challenge fund which will match subsequent contributions up to a million dollars. The project’s estimated cost is $3 million, with additional funding anticipated from private individuals, business, and foundations. “We have been blessed in the past with overwhelming public support for our projects at SCHS. Our hope is that the public will again show their support by contributing to the History Center with the monetary donations necessary to complete the project. The dream of having a History Center has been a long time goal for many of us involved with SCHS. We are excited to be getting closer to the realization of that dream, and look forward to a successful partnership with those who appreciate the value of preserving Steele County history for generations to come.” said Jerry Ganfield, Building Committee Chairman.

How can you help? There are several opportunities available for you to contribute to this project:
Create A Lasting Legacy: When you, your family, your business, or organization make a contribution in the appropriate amount, the SCHS Board of Directors will dedicate a room or program area within the new History Center in a name you’ve chosen to honor. There are a limited number of named gift opportunities available.
Make a Cash Contribution: Gifts in any amount are welcome and very much appreciated. Contributions of $500 or more will be permanently acknowledged in an attractive, prominent display within the new History Center. All contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Explore other forms of gifting: These may include certificates of deposit, stocks or bonds, a paid up life insurance policy, or perhaps a gift of investment property or real estate.
If you would like more information about any of the above opportunities, please contact Laura Resler at 451-1420 or e-mail her at director@steelecohistoricalsociety.org . Inquiries can be kept confidential, and preliminary contact doesn’t obligate you at this time. Donations may be directed to Steele County Historical Society, 1448 Austin Road, Owatonna 55060-attention: Laura Resler.

History Center Site Plan
History Center Floor Plan
History Center Rendering-Front of Bldg
History Center Rendering-Side View
History Center-Back of Bldg
History Center Project Fund