The Laird Lucas Library and Archives

In the Winona County
​History Center.
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The History Center is currently closed, but contact our archive staff for research help remotely and use the links below to get started at home.

    Contact Our Archivists

or call 507.454.2723 ext. 2
Recognized as one of the finest local archives in Minnesota, the Laird Lucas Library and Archives contains irreplaceable collections of manuscripts, documents and photographs. Professional historians, students and family researchers find this outstanding facility a valuable resource to fill their needs for research, study and information. If you have ancestors from our area, you may discover your “roots” in this research center. We can provide you with information on how to trace your family tree or assist you with research in most areas of local history.

The Archives are located on the lower level of the Winona County History Center. General admission is $5 for adults and students doing research and members are free. Additional archivist research time and copy/scan fees are charged. Cannot make it in person? Contact our archivists anytime by email or phone. 
Stacks are closed to the public, so staff archivists will bring materials to researchers as requested and can help researchers identify potentially useful sources within the library and archives. Microfilm reader-printers may be used with newspaper and census records stored on microfilm reels. Wi-Fi, and a public computer with Internet access are also available for use. No personal scanners are allowed and the library and archives is non-lending. 

​A great way to get started on your local Winona County research:
​- The Winona Newspaper Project allows you to search Winona Newspapers online! You can even wear your pajamas!

More Resources:
- Archives at home! Tips for keeping your family records and treasures in good shape for generations
- MNopedia An online encyclopedia of Minnesota topics from the Minnesota Historical Society
- Digital Collections Explore our Huntley and Tenney image collections and more at Minnesota Reflections
- Genealogy & Family Research Find a ton of tools and tutorials from the National Archives
- Free Genealogy Resources from American Ancestors 
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