EDINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Collecting, preserving & telling

the stories of our community , we invite you to

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Upcoming Programs

Reel History: Dawn of the Drive-In

June 6, 2019 at the Edina History Museum/Terrace Room
On June 15th, 1966 over 1700 automobiles arrived to view the inaugural film at Mann's France Avenue Drive-In Theater. Advertised as the “world’s most distinctive and beautiful drive-in theater” with the “world’s biggest screen,” the France Avenue Drive-In was one of more than 4000 drive-in theaters built during the 1950s and 1960s.

Land of amber waters - The complete history of brewing in MN

June 11, 2019 at the Wooden Hill Brewery/Program Room
Starting with its first brewery in 1849, Doug Hoverson tells the story of Minnesota’s beer industry from the small-town breweries that gave way to larger companies with regional and national prominence to the vibrant beer culture of today. NOTE: This event will be held at Wooden Hill Brewery. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Apollo: Why America Went to the Moon

July 20, 2019 at the Edina History Museum/Terrace Room
It has been 50 years since Neil Armstrong stepped foot on the lunar surface, making "one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." On July 20, 1969, hundreds of millions across the world watched as Apollo 11 made its historic landing. That day will long be remembered as the first-time mankind ventured beyond the earth’s boundaries to explore a new world. But why did we go to the moon? What was it about that moment in history that would lead the nation to embrace a quest that many deemed impossible? Join us for a non-technical discussion of the many forces at work -- political, social and fiscal -- that led to mankind’s greatest technological achievement.

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.