EDINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Collecting, preserving & telling

the stories of our community , we invite you to

Rediscover Edina

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Upcoming Programs

Language of Flowers
May 10, 2018

Celebrate spring with flowers and history! Historian Jayne Becker explores the history behind the language of flowers and shares examples of floral dictionaries and almanacs.

WWI & The Red Cross
May 17, 2018

Using letters, journals and newspaper accounts from WWI, historian Jayne Becker will explore the variety of ways Minnesotans supported the Red Cross.

To Honor & Remember: A Tribute
May 19, 2018

Join Mayor Jim Hovland and some of the Edina Veterans Memorial Committee members to hear their perspectives on Edina’s proud record of military service.

This event is FREE to attend

Did you know?

As WWI raged in Europe and farmers went to war, their crops were left untended, resulting in severe food shortages. There was no meat, and dairy products were greatly restricted. Even before the U.S. entered the war, America was providing food for the Allies. With food in short supply, meatless and wheatless days were introduced to reduce consumption. People turned to backyard gardening to increase their food supplies and community gardens began to spring up throughout the country. These patriotic “Liberty Gardens” were an important part of food conservation efforts throughout the war, and Minnesota led the nation in these efforts. Join us on April 19 to learn more about the WWI Liberty Gardens.

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.