Waseca County Historical Society

06/12/2026

Could You Hold a Piece of a 48 Star Flag’s Story?

Somewhere in Waseca County or beyond, there may be a photograph, newspaper clipping, family story—or person—who can help us better understand this remarkable 48-star American flag.

Since finding the flag at Hodgson Hall last year, WCHS has been working with the community to uncover its history. We contacted local organizations, searched records, and publicly invited information and research through our Autumn 2025 newsletter.

Several promising leads have already emerged, and we are grateful to everyone who has shared photographs, memories, documents, and research with us.

To help staff organize the many contributions and respond to each person in the order received, we have created a dedicated research email:

[email protected]

You do not need to be a professional historian to help. We welcome:

* photographs, clippings, letters, and family records;

* memories of seeing the flag displayed;

* names of people, events, or organizations connected with it;

* possible ownership, donation, or research information.

Please include any known names, dates, locations, and sources. We appreciate your patience as staff gives each contribution careful attention.

Would you like to research further? Everyone is welcome to conduct their own research at the Bailey-Lewer Research Library on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WCHS members who would like research assistance from staff may request an appointment by emailing [email protected]. If requests increase significantly, we are also exploring an online scheduling option for the WCHS website.

Thank you for helping us uncover this extraordinary piece of Waseca County history. Please share this post with anyone who may remember the flag or hold part of its story.

05/10/2026

Having fun reorganizing and evaluating the shelves of books at the WCHS Bailey Research Library! Do read the usage instructions at the bottom of this first Waseca telephone directory from 1899!

Couldn’t resist “hamming” it up for the camera!

05/06/2026

A big thank-you to the wonderful curatorial staff at the Winona County Historical Society, Chisago County Historical Society, and Monroe County Historical Society!

In just the last two days, we received three items from fellow historical societies that have provenance right here in Waseca County.

We are so grateful for colleagues across Minnesota and beyond who take the time to make sure historical items find their way home. These thoughtful transfers help us preserve and share Waseca County stories for generations to come.

History work is truly a community effort. ❤️

04/25/2026

Today’s the day!

Join us this afternoon for Victorian Mourning Customs – Unveiled, presented by Susan Hynes. Step into the past and explore the fascinating traditions and cultural practices surrounding mourning in the Victorian era.

Today, April 25
1:30 PM
Museum Building, 315 2nd Ave NE, Waseca

This program is free to attend, but space is limited. We would love to see you there.

04/14/2026

**Victorian Mourning Customs Unveiled**

Step into a world where grief had rules, fashion spoke volumes, and even silence told a story.

Have you ever wondered how people in the Victorian era honored their loved ones? From elaborate mourning attire to symbolic jewelry and strict social customs, this fascinating program reveals a side of history that is rarely talked about—but impossible to forget.

Join us for this free event and uncover:

The hidden meanings behind mourning clothing
The traditions that shaped how people expressed loss
The surprising (and sometimes strange) customs of the time

This is a unique opportunity to experience history in a deeply human way—through love, loss, and remembrance.

Location: 315 2nd Ave NE, Museum Building, Waseca
Date & Time: April 25, 2026 at 1:30 PM
Admission: Free and open to the public

Bring a friend, bring your curiosity, and prepare to see the Victorian era in a whole new light.

04/08/2026

Something is under wraps at the Waseca County Historical Society…

Our staff recently chose a few remarkable artifacts from our collection for a brand new exhibit, which opened April 7: This Old Thing?

At first glance, these objects might seem ordinary—but each one has a story that makes it unforgettable. And for now… we’re keeping them a secret until you get here to see for yourself

Watch the video for a sneak peek
What do you think we’re hiding?

Come & see.

03/17/2026

Can't wait to see you all April 7th! What 4 objects did we choose?

Waseca County Historical Society Announces New Exhibit: This Old Thing Four Objects. Four Staff Picks. Countless Stories.

03/13/2026

Not the oldest. Not the most valuable. Just the ones we love. See you April 7th.

03/13/2026

Something is under wraps at the Waseca County Historical Society…

Our staff recently chose a few remarkable artifacts from our collection for a new exhibit (opening April 7) called This Old Thing?

What are we hiding?
You’ll have to visit to find out.

03/13/2026

The research library will be closed for the rest of today - see you on Tuesday!