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Donations & Memorials

Your Gifts Help Preserve the History of More Than 10,000 Minnesota Children

For more than a century, the stories of the children who lived at the Minnesota State Public School have been part of Owatonna’s history. Today, it is our responsibility to make sure those stories are not forgotten. The Museum is a nonprofit organization that depends on the generosity of visitors, members, donors, and friends to preserve the buildings, grounds, collections, and stories entrusted to us.

​General Donations

General Donations are used to support the operation and maintenance of the museum. ​Select the Donate button to make a tax-deductible donation to the Orphanage Museum.

The Children Remembered Legacy Fund

The Children Remembered Legacy Fund was established to provide a secure financial foundation for the Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum and this important historic site.

A gift to the Legacy Fund helps create long-term financial stability—so the Museum can continue its work for generations to come. Your donation can help ensure that the children are remembered and that their stories continue to be told.

If the State School has touched your life or the life of someone you know, we invite you to give from the heart. Every gift makes a difference. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Click the Donate button to make a donation.

Consider a Lasting Gift

If you are considering a larger gift or including the Museum in your estate plans, there are several ways to make a lasting contribution. Please consult your financial advisor or legal representative about giving opportunities that may be right for you.

Engraved Memorial Pavers

Purchase an engraved brick pavers in memory or honor of someone special. Cost is $100 each.

 

Type the name in the box provided and then click the Buy Now button to purchase your brick. We will contact you to verify wording before the paver is ordered.

I have a form we could link to.

Contact Us

540 West Hills Circle
Owatonna, Minnesota 55060
Directions

Self-Guided Tour Hours

Museum
Monday-Friday: 8 AM-4:30 PM
Saturday-Sunday: 1 PM-5 PM
Closed Major Holidays.

Admission is free.
$2 donation appreciated.

Campus
Map with QR codes available in main museum. Indicates location of six audio stations.

Cottage 11
Tuesday-Sunday
May 1-Labor Day:1 PM-4 PM
Labor Day-Dec 31: 1 PM-3 PM
Closed January and February
Mid-March-April 30: 1 PM-3 PM
or by appt. at 507-774-7369
Admission is free.
$2 donation appreciated.

Group Tours

Group Tours
We happily schedule guided tours for groups of 10 or more. You will visit the Museum, view a 1930 film, and tour Cottage 11, a restored boys' cottage. A fee is charged. Send an email to: museum@owatonna.gov. 

See Group Tours & Area Attractions.

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