The Society's annual budget is about $200,000, with approximately 25%
coming from governmental support. The balance is raised through admission
fees, membership dues,
gift shop
sales and special events.
Two trust funds are maintained by the Society: The Hiawatha Trust Fund, income from which is used for general operations;
and the Laird Lucas Trust Fund, which is restricted to the operations of the library
and archives.
The Laird Lucas Fund is managed at the Merchants Bank Trust Department
and the Hiawatha Endowment Fund is managed by the Trust Department at Winona National Bank.
