Kanabec History Center

09/04/2026

SNAKE RIVER Tidbits: The Snake River originates 6 mi. north of McGrath in Aitkin County. The original name was Portage River. The Chippewa renamed it Kanabig meaning snake (a variant of Kanabec) after their enemies the Sioux who they eventually displaced.

The tributary Groundhouse River was named from the earth lodges of the Mandan natives, who were relatives of the Sioux and once inhabited the area.

Upper and Lower Falls are located on the Snake River in northern Kanabec County near Woodland, with many rapids between McGrath and Mora.

MN Department of Conservation Investigational Report 275 - 1964

09/02/2026

08/27/2026

What are the old sayings that you grew up with? For example "Knee high by the Fourth of July" For corn, or "Plant by the Light of the Moon," or "A mostly black woolly worm predicts a tough winter, while more brown indicates a gentler one."

Whether it is a saying that just your family used or a generic/well known saying we'd love to hear!

07/17/2026

The History Center will be closed this Saturday, July 18th. Please accept our apologies for any inconveniences. Thank you.

07/13/2026

ATTENTION PARENTS/STUDENTS OF OLD TYME COUNTRY SCHOOL:

CLASSES WILL BE HELD AS PLANNED. We are watching the excessive heat warnings and making alternative plans for students to be in the air-conditioned Rental Hall when necessary. The Whittier School stays cool in the mornings...but classes may be moved indoors as weather heats up. Thank you.

07/08/2026

Old Tyme Country School is underway! We welcome students and teacher Mrs. Thrippleton!

07/01/2026

We are going to be closed on the 4th of July in honor of the 250th birthday of our Country. I hope you all have a lovely Holiday!

06/18/2026

Old Tme Country School Update!
Sessions two and three are closed, however session one still has space. The dates for session one are July 6-10. If you are intrested you can find registration at our website or at the front desk.
Please turn in registrations by July 1st.
Thank you all and have a great week!

KANABEC HISTORY CENTER

06/05/2026

We found this picture in the vault and we have no information on it. If you recognize this painting please let us know who may have given it to us or if it is a local artist who painted it.

06/04/2026

Old Time Country School classes are filling up fast. Session II is almost full. Sessions I & III are still available. at this time. Please get your registrations in soon - Thanks! We have costumes to borrow at the History Center. We are in need of the juices again this year- please let us know if you have one to borrow.