​​Our Mission: To preserve, document, and classify the physical history of the Lake Minnetonka area; to provide a means by which everyone can share in the history of the lake area; and to stimulate interest in the cultural heritage of the area.

A  N  N  O  U  N  C  E  M  E  N  T  S

Help Us Celebrate 50 Years
​
​ of Making History

History Cruise: The Gilded Age on Lake Minnetonka with Aaron Person
Monday, July 11, 2022, 6:00 pm

The second in a series of four cruises aboard the "Lady of the Lake" exploring the history of Lake Minnetonka, Aaron will discuss the tourism boom on the lake from 1879-1900 including the trains, steamboats and hotels that fed it. We'll also cruise by West Big Island's early summer cottage community and the site of Olaf Searle's Big Island mansion as we travel through the channel he dredged through the island.

NEW
Virtual Oak Hill Cemetery Tour

Take our NEW Virtual Oak Hill Cemetery Tour with historian Scott D. McGinnis, anytime, anywhere, rain or shine!

​WWII Veterans Page

​ELMHS is proud to announce a new page dedicated to the brave men and women from the Excelsior-area who served their country during WWII. Click here to see the WWII Veterans Home Page where you can...
  • Read their stories in two virtual exhibits
  • Find information we compiled on over 500 veterans
  • Get started on your research with a list state a national resources
  • Submit your own stories or help us expand ours!

Run/Walk for History 5k - Virtual Fun Run

​The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society has been running since 1972! You can be a part of this legacy by participating in the Run for History 5k in celebration of our 50th Anniversary. The funds raised from this event will keep the society on track to collect, preserve, and share the history of the Lake Minnetonka area for future generations.
Registration: $45 (includes: T-shirt, medal, and downloadable race bib)
*Registration is open from April-December 2022
Picture
Race swag for the Run for History Virtual Fun Run

ELMHS Merchandise via Bonfire!

ELMHS has partnered with Bonfire to bring you new south Lake Minnetonka history-themed merchandise! Chose from clothing, mugs, and tote bags in either the ELMHS logo or Excelsior Amusement Park designs. Order directly from our shop page on Bonfire and have your items delivered directly to you. 
Need a last minute gift? Our gift shop has books, maps, prints, and more available for pick up. Click here for details and pricing. 
© 2022 Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society. All rights reserved. PO Box 305, Excelsior, MN  55331.