Lake Minnetonka Historical Society

The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the Lake Minnetonka area in Minnesota. Established to document and safeguard the region’s unique cultural and historical heritage, the society offers resources such as archives, photographs, and exhibits that highlight the lake’s evolution from its Native American roots to its development as a bustling resort community in the 19th and 20th centuries. Through educational programs, publications, and events, the society connects visitors and locals alike with the stories that shaped Lake Minnetonka’s past.

402 Lake St E
Wayzata, MN 55391
(952) 473-3631


  • Charles Gibson: Early Deephaven Visionary Explored in Upcoming Historical Society Event

    Charles Gibson: Early Deephaven Visionary Explored in Upcoming Historical Society Event

    History enthusiasts and Lake Minnetonka locals are in for a treat as the Lake Minnetonka Historical Society hosts an engaging event to delve into the legacy of Charles Gibson, a Missouri capitalist who significantly shaped Deephaven’s early development. Event Details: Deephaven historian Barb Sykora will present the life and work of Charles Gibson, who first…

  • All Aboard for History: The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Celebrates Local Rail Legacy

    All Aboard for History: The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Celebrates Local Rail Legacy

    The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society (LMHS) is inviting the community to step back in time and explore the rich history of rail travel along the shores of Lake Minnetonka. The event, titled “The Reach of the Rail – All Aboard for the North Shore,” will be hosted on Thursday, November 21, at 7:00 pm in…

  • A Taste of Tradition: The Legacy of Hart’s Cafe in Wayzata

    A Taste of Tradition: The Legacy of Hart’s Cafe in Wayzata

    A Culinary Landmark and Community Hub in Wayzata’s History Hart’s Cafe was more than just a restaurant; it was a cornerstone of Wayzata, Minnesota, with a history as rich as its menu. “It’s always been the center of activity in town, that location where CōV is now,” states Wayzata historian Joanie Holst, who serves on…

  • The Reach of the Rail: All Aboard for the South Shore

    The Reach of the Rail: All Aboard for the South Shore

    The arrival of the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railroad to Excelsior in 1881 marked a turning point for the town and the entire South Shore of Lake Minnetonka. Before this crucial connection, travelers had to navigate rough roads, ice paths, or boats from Wayzata to reach Excelsior and other southern lakeside towns. With the new…

  • Lake Minnetonka Historical Society to Host Big Island History Cruise and Walking Tour

    Lake Minnetonka Historical Society to Host Big Island History Cruise and Walking Tour

    The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society (LMHS) will present a history cruise and walking tour of Big Island aboard “Her Excellency” on Sunday, Sept. 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $55 for LMHS members and $70 for nonmembers and are available at tinyurl.com/55rvn9jy. For more information, contact LMHS at info@LakeMinnetonkaHistory.org or 952-474-2115. The…

  • Volunteers Needed to Share Lake Minnetonka’s Story

    Volunteers Needed to Share Lake Minnetonka’s Story

    The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society is calling for volunteers to help bring the area’s rich history to life. No prior experience is required, just a passion for storytelling! Volunteers will greet visitors, provide information, and sell historical items at museums located in Excelsior, Wayzata, and Mound Westonka. Interested individuals can sign up for a training…

  • Lake Minnetonka Historical Society to Host Presentation on Early History of Wayzata and North Shore

    Lake Minnetonka Historical Society to Host Presentation on Early History of Wayzata and North Shore

    The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society (LMHS) is set to showcase “The Early History of Wayzata and the North Shore” featuring historian Joanie Holst. The event will take place on Monday, February 12, at 7:00 pm in the Wayzata Community Room, located at 600 Rice Street East, Wayzata, MN. Holst’s presentation will guide the audience through…

  • Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Presents “The Early History of Mound and the Upper Lake”

    Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Presents “The Early History of Mound and the Upper Lake”

    The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society invites the public to delve into the rich history of Mound, Minnesota, and its significance in the Upper Lake Minnetonka region. Historian Jeff Magnuson will lead an engaging presentation titled “The Early History of Mound and the Upper Lake” on Monday, January 8, 2024, at 7:00 pm. The event will…

  • Stone gates at Harrington Farms damaged by delivery truck

    Stone gates at Harrington Farms damaged by delivery truck

    A truck driver inadvertently knocked over one of the historic gates while making a delivery in the area within the past week. The gates are located at the intersection of Ferndale Road and Harrington Road. The mishap occurred last week and was first reported on social media. One observer opined it may cost $100,000 to…

  • Local History Enthusiasts Welcome to Lake Minnetonka Historical Society’s Volunteer Open House

    The Lake Minnetonka Historical Society (LMHS) extends a warm invitation to the public for a special Volunteer Open House on Saturday, October 14, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. This event will take place at the Wayzata City Hall Community Room, 600 Rice Street East, Wayzata. If you’re a history buff or simply looking to…