Welcome to Winona County Historical Society!
This city and county derived their names from “Winuŋna” (wee-NEW-nuh), a Dakota descriptive word meaning “first-born who is a daughter.” Over the centuries, writers recorded the name as Wenonah, Weenona, and Wynona. Others called this area “Wabasha’s Prairie,” “The Island City,” or “Wing Prairie.” The trail of names and spellings hints that this place along the Mississippi River means many different things to many different people. We invite you to discover what it means to you.
Pictured above: Noteworthy moments in Winona County’s history frame the figure of the Dakota woman Winuŋna, the area’s namesake. Located in the Winona County History Center.
History Center
HIGHLIGHTS
Apply for 2026 Handmade Neighborhood Artisan Market!
Are you an artist or creator? Apply for the 2026 Handmade Neighborhood Market! We’re accepting applications August 1st – 31st. Learn more about participating using “apply now” the button.
Handmade Neighborhood is an annual artisan market held the Saturday before Thanksgiving from 10AM to 4PM. The market features a juried selection of quality, unique, handmade items by area artisans. Artists set up with a boutique-quality vibe throughout the History Center, and all the spaces in between. Shop a wide variety of handmade jewelry, pottery, woodwork, clothing, knits, glassworks, bath products, fine art, and much more!
The History Center is OPEN!
The Children’s Exhibit and the Native Exhibit are still under construction, but the rest of the History Center museum is open for visitors! Come experience the new sights and sounds in the River Gallery. Swing by The Museum Shop! Visit the rotating lobby art shows, book a rental space, or make an appointment in the archives.
Lobby Art Gallery & The Museum Shop
- STATUS: Open
- WHEN:10am – 4pm, DAILY
Museum Exhibits
- STATUS: Open
- WHEN: 10AM – 4PM daily
Laird Norton Library & Archives
- STATUS: Open
- WHEN: Mon – Wed, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Rental Spaces
- Open by booking
Participate
IN HISTORY
WCHS
VALUES
Active Learning
Respectful Representation
Transformative Storytelling
Inclusive Collaboration
Responsible Stewardship
Winona County Historical Society Capital Campaign
Together, we will build a cultural destination that not only stimulates economic growth but also provides a space where people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate the diverse tapestry of the human past. We invite you to join us on this remarkable journey towards a brighter and more inspired future.
Become a Member
Members support the work of WCHS and also enjoy these great benefits:
- Receive 6 issues of The Argus bimonthly newsletter filled with articles, features, & news.
- Enjoy free admission to WCHS museums & archives
- Claim discounts in the History Center Shop, facility rentals, event & class tickets.
