Blue Earth County Historical Society

Winston Grundmeier, volunteer and donor, wants to tell you what BECHS means to him:

Throughout the past 21 years, the historical society has become my life—where my heart is and shall remain. There has never been a happier place for me to associate or to commit my time and resources. BECHS is a great investment for my money; every dollar helps in so many ways.

What does the Blue Earth County Historical Society mean to you?

Does it mean out-of-the-ordinary places to take your out-of-town guests, like the Heritage Center Museum, the Marian Anderson Art Gallery or the Hubbard House decked out for the holidays? Is it a new way for your children and grandchildren to discover and fall in love with history? Or is it a way for people to connect with each other and with the rich heritage of our region?

For numerous donors and volunteers like retired Chemistry professor and amateur historian Winston Grundmeier, BECHS is the opportunity to give of his resources and to make history. Since 1990, Winston has volunteered, served on various committees including the Board of Trustees and been an active member and donor. He knows that BECHS is more than a museum of antiques; it is an active organization that welcomes everyone to discover, learn, experience and support.

The Blue Earth County Historical Society is all of these and more. Together, we are 110 years of collecting and preserving the past for the future including the Front Street Project, educational opportunities for all ages, and the publication of local history books. Together, we are a collection of over 23,000 objects ranging from a small streetcar token to an 1870s stagecoach. And we are a place where anyone can walk in the door and receive friendly assistance exploring the vast historical and genealogical resources available.

Our operating budget is $190,000; Blue Earth County provides nearly 50% through an annual allocation and the remainder comes from people like you through memberships, donations and fees collected. Your annual gift allows us to maintain our current day-to-day operations with an extremely small staff, expand our services to meet the needs of the region, engage new volunteers and explore new ways to interpret the rich heritage of Blue Earth County.

Our 2011 year-end goal is to raise $15,000 to fill a 2011 funding gap and support operations for 2012. Every gift makes a difference. Today you can help us match a $2,000 gift from Winston and Shirley Grundmeier.