Village of Yesteryear Tour Schedule to Start

The Steele County Historical Society announces the beginning of the tour season for the Village of Yesteryear. The summer of guided tours will begin Tuesday, June 16 with a 1:30 pm scheduled tour. You can also call to arrange a tour for another time at 507-451-1420.

The Village features 19 structures and is located on the east end of the Steele County Fairgrounds. Suggested donation is $5 for adults and $3 for children 7 to 16 years of age. The tours include an inside look at the buildings and artifacts, therein. Items date back to the mid-1850's.

A press release from the historical society also points out that, "During daylight hours, visitors may always visit the open-air campus and read the history of the buildings, most having been moved to the Village from towns and rural areas of the county since 1962."

Among the many things I will miss with the cancellation of the Steele County Fair is my time spent at the Village. I usually make my way to the grounds four or five times a week to catch people for interviews, watch some entertainment, and enjoy a cold drink from the Beaver Lake pop stand. It's good to know we can still take in the Village through the tours offered over the summer.

The historical society also announces that the History Center will open effective June 16 with state COVID-19 guidelines observed. Hours are 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is $5. The two newest exhibits are "County Schools: The Beating Heart of the Rural Community" and "American Legion: A Powerful Factor for Good."