Our Story

ABOUT US

The Minster Historical Society collects, interprets, preserves and shares the artifacts and history of Minster and the surrounding area through exhibits, programs and publications.

The Minster Historical Society is a non-profit 501(c)3 Corporation. That status allows for tax deductible donations from supporters. From the very beginning, in 1976, Society members have created an all volunteer organization with museum displays, genealogical records and programs free for public use.

At the time of incorporation, the first election of officers was held. President, Robert Hoying; Vice President, Ted Purpus; Secretary-Treasurer, Velma Schmieder; and Trustees, Harold Thieman, Jim Eiting, Luke Knapke, Marie Eiting and Connie Meyer.

In 1979, with permission of the Village Council, a lease for part of the second floor of the local library was finalized. Members of the organization accomplished much needed renovation work which included the installation of cabinetry for display purposes. A funeral card file was started at the time by Luke and Mary Knapke.

Fourteen years later the Society moved to the present location in a portion of the police department building offered by the Village. Located near the historic Miami & Erie Canal with ample parking and easy, first floor access, the new location allowed for the expansion of displays. With that expansion, more donated artifacts for preservation by the Society were received. The area allowed for the separation of the genealogy and research room from the display section.

In 2009, the first major exhibit, entitled “A Salute to the World War II Era” was presented. The Society and Museum had become a great success. Since then a family portrait gallery has been put in place in our Genealogy Department, along with a permanent room saluting Home Town Heroes that permanently displays artifacts from local police, fire, rescue and military veterans. 2017 brings us “Heritage Park” adjacent to our museum.