COVID-19 Safety Guidelines:
Masks required for all visitors.
Do not visit if you have been knowingly exposed or do not feel well.
Please respectfully give others space.
Thank you. WCHS COVID-19 safety guidelines are based on current community spread of COVID-19.
Masks required for all visitors.
Do not visit if you have been knowingly exposed or do not feel well.
Please respectfully give others space.
Thank you. WCHS COVID-19 safety guidelines are based on current community spread of COVID-19.
Archives Notice: For everyone's safety please call to make an appointment before visiting
the Archives or for remote research assistance options. Thank you.
the Archives or for remote research assistance options. Thank you.
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Connect with the Archives for your research needs!
Call 507.454.2723 ext. 2 Email archives@winonahistory.org Visit The Laird Lucas Library & Archives is open weekdays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 Students and FREE for WCHS members, Students doing research for a class, and children 7 and younger. (Other fees may apply) |
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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. 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.
The Archives are located on the lower level of the Winona County History Center.
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
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
Laird Lucas, 1922 - 1975
Portrait of Laird Lucas, by E.M. Thomas, 1979.
The generosity of the Lucas family enabled the Winona County Historical Society to establish and develop the Laird Lucas Memorial Library and Archives. Today, it is one of the best local research facilities in the Midwest and continues to grow. Laird was very active in the Winona community, serving on boards of numerous charitable and fraternal organizations. He was vice-president of Laird, Norton & Co. and United Building Centers. In 1942 Laird entered the U.S. Army after attending Dartmouth College. As a lieutenant he was wounded three times, assisted in the action capturing Remagen Bridge, and was awarded the Purple Heart with clusters and the Silver Star.