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When a society or civilization perishes, one condition can always be found. They forgot where they came from.
-Carl Sandburg
- As a private nonprofit organization, the Otter Tail County Historical Society relies on contributions. In fact, approximately 25% of our revenue is generated through individual donations.
- Private contributions will be especially important in the near future. In 2009, the Society absorbed a cut in its local government support. Since 25% of our revenue comes from county, township and city appropriations, it is necessary to make up this deficit through donations.
- Our mission of collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of Otter Tail County requires considerable resources. Your tax deductible contribution will allow us to maintain the wide variety of programs and services that makes the Society one of the most active historical organizations in Minnesota.
- As you make plans for charitable giving, please consider the Otter Tail County Historical Society. Your support will ensure there is no interruption in our diverse services. The words are Carl Sandburg are all too true. We must not let that happen.
Thank you for your support.Sincerely,
Chris Schuelke, Executive Director
Otter Tail County Historical Society
Our History
Otter Tail County Historical Society was organized on July 31, 1927, at a gathering at Amor Park. For decades the Society was headquartered in the basement of the county courthouse. In 1972, Underwood native, John Gronner, lead a county-wide capital fund drive which resulted in a new museum. Ten years later another drive provided funds to add an agriculture wing.
Many volunteer hours have gone into making the Society what it is today. Local artist, Charles Beck, designed and implemented the installation of many exhibits that continue to tell the history of Otter Tail County.
Our library has grown because of the generous donations of time and funds. A financial contribution made in honor of Samuel P. Adams continues to sustain the library and archives. Volunteer hours donated by many volunteers including Ann Smalley Jordan, for whom the archives was named on May 22, 2004, have and continue to increase our holdings.
Our educational programs started in 1979 when our first educator, Judy Stringer, put together our first education kit.
In 2002 we celebrated our 75th Anniversary with the completion of a site improvement project which almost doubled our parking lot, made a bus drop-off and handicap accessible ramp as well as provided better drainage to the building.
We are currently trying to raise $100,000 for our Technology Fund. This fund will provide a regular source of revenue for computer upgrades and improvements. Please consider making a donation to this fund.
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