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Upcoming Programs

100 Years of Christmas at Dayton's
December 7, 2018 7:00-8:30pm

For 100 years Dayton’s department store helped Minnesotans celebrate Christmas. We will look at how Dayton’s made the Christmas season magical by reviewing various window displays, unique gifts, store promotions, Santa Land, the unforgettable auditorium displays, along with a general history of the Minneapolis retail store. We will also look at the behind the scenes action by examining anecdotes from the management and the ever-helpful store employees, who made the name Dayton’s synonymous with Christmas shopping.  

Featured Exhibit

No Place Like Home:
Edina During World War I

The First World War had a profound impact here in Edina. As young men were called into military service, many women took jobs outside their traditional roles. The country diverted its manufacturing resources to war efforts, creating shortages of metals and other resources. There were food shortages as supplies were shipped overseas to support the troops. Minnesotans were asked to produce as much of their own food as possible, to reduce food waste and to eat less meat, wheat and sugar. Other efforts to support the war included patriotic parades and rallies, fundraising through Liberty Bonds, and supporting the American Red Cross. Meanwhile, Minnesotans of German descent, the largest ethnic minority group in the state, were required to register as alien enemies and carry their registration card with them at all times.  

The World War I exhibit at the Edina Historical Society offers a glimpse into the past to see what life was like in Edina during the Great War. Discover the poignant stories of Edina residents affected by the War, both at home and abroad. The exhibit includes WWI artifacts and a simulated trench. Admission is free and open to the public during regular museum hours.