Kandiyohi County Historical Society & The museum

Kandiyohi County Historical Society is located on the North edge of Willmar, Minnesota and across from Willmar Lake and Robbins Island.

The Kandiyohi County Historical Society is a non-profit 501 (c)3 dedicated to "discovering, preserving, and sharing the story of Kandiyohi County and its people.

The museum complex consists of six buildings across from Foot Lake in Willmar, MN: our main museum and research library, District #18 Schoolhouse, Engine #2523, Sperry House, Grandpa's Shed and an agriculture building.

The main museum contains an exhibit area and research library. The main entry is the former Kandiyohi railroad station depot. The research library contains many resources for local and family history. The exhibit area features many different displays: military, transportation, and other exhibits that relate to Kandiyohi County history.

District #18 Schoolhouse built in 1880 brings back to life the one room schoolhouse. It was moved to the museum grounds in 1971.

Great Northern class P-2 Mountain (4-8-2) #2523 is a survivor of the steam engines acquired by the Great Northern Railway to speed up mainline passenger service. Number 2523 is the last of 28 locomotives built for the Great Northern by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. It was built in 1923 and retired in 1958. It was placed at the museum grounds on permanent display in October 1965.

The Sperry House was built in 1893 by Albert and Jennie Sperry. Albert H. Sperry was a pioneer settler, Civil War soldier, farmer and businessman. This Victorian farmhouse showcases a glimpse into turn of the century life in Kandiyohi County.

Grandpa's Shed built between 1905 and 1910 by Judge G.E. Qvale on Eagle Lake as a playhouse. It later became a guest cottage. It was moved to the museum grounds in 1971. Currently, it exhibits outdoor life in Kandiyohi County.

The Agriculture Building showcases the many tools and equipment used over the years in Kandiyohi County. This building is only open for guided tours by appointment.

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