Honor Minnesota Veterans This Veterans Day at Camp Ripley’s Unforgettable Military Museum
Step into history at Minnesota’s Military Museum this Veterans Day and explore powerful exhibits that honor the brave men and women who served. 🌐 #News #LittleFallsMN #Minnesota #VeteransDay
LITTLE FALLS, MN – Minnesota holds a place for everyone touched by military service. With Veterans Day around the corner, there’s no better time to honor those who served. For Minnesotans, a visit to the Minnesota Military Museum at Camp Ripley in Little Falls offers a powerful way to remember the contributions and sacrifices of our state’s veterans.
Located just north of Little Falls, this museum is a year-round destination for those interested in Minnesota’s military history. The museum is the work of the Military Historical Society of Minnesota (MHSM), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving stories of service and sacrifice. The museum operates in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society and the Minnesota National Guard, reflecting a deep commitment to remembering Minnesota’s military legacy.
A Mission to Preserve and Educate
The Minnesota Military Museum’s mission reaches far beyond displaying artifacts. It aims to document and share the history of Minnesotans in all branches of service and on the home front, from Minnesota’s early frontier days to the present.
By preserving the stories of those who served, the museum hopes visitors leave with a richer understanding of how military service shaped our state and a deeper appreciation for the men and women who dedicated themselves to protecting our country.
Extensive Collections and Thought-Provoking Exhibits
Visitors can explore an impressive collection of nearly 35,000 artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, vehicles, and even a 40 & 8 boxcar used during WWI to transport troops. The exhibits dive into Minnesota’s role in America’s major conflicts, the evolution of state forces like the National Guard, and the role of early forts in establishing Minnesota as we know it today.
Highlights include the “America at War” exhibit, which examines the causes and impacts of major U.S. wars since Minnesota gained statehood in 1858. The “Story of the Jeep” showcases the iconic military vehicle, with several models on display during the summer months. There’s also an exhibit dedicated to Minnesota Medal of Honor recipients, adding a personal touch to the museum’s storytelling.
A Hub for Archives and Military Research
The museum’s archival collections provide a rich resource for anyone interested in military history or tracing the experiences of Minnesotan veterans. The archive holds photos, letters, diaries, maps, and other materials, making it the largest record repository in the state.
The military library boasts an impressive 15,000 books and manuals, with a special focus on materials connected to Minnesota’s military history.
Visiting Details
The museum is open from Thursday through Saturday, October to April, and daily from May to September, with tickets priced at $5 for adults and $2 for children. Active military members can visit for free. Located within Camp Ripley, visitors are welcomed to explore the indoor and outdoor exhibits, and guided group tours are available by appointment.
This Veterans Day, consider a visit to the Minnesota Military Museum to honor the courage and sacrifices of those who served. A trip here isn’t just about seeing artifacts; it’s about understanding the people behind the service and ensuring that their legacy endures.
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