The story of Europeans who came to America searching for a better life is told in the Stearns History Museum’s newest exhibit, “In Their Own Words.” The exhibit opens to the public Sunday, Aug. 8. Through firsthand accounts, writings by contemporary authors and artifacts from the museum’s collection. “In Their Own Words” attempts to capture the troubles, hopes and inspirations of early settlers in Stearns County. Five facets of an immigrants’ life in central Minnesota are featured: the immigration story, their homes, their faith, agriculture and commerce. Some of the artifacts visitors will see are Father Pierz’s cross, Joseph Linnemann’s immigrant trunk, a German-made violin and the 1877 tabernacle from the first Grasshopper Chapel in Cold Spring. Merchants, farmers and businesspersons came here because they saw opportunity in the growing population of central Minnesota. By 1855, St. Joseph settlers John H. Linnemann and Peter Loso established trading outlets to tap the market’s potential. “When people choose to immigrate to a new country, often it is because they are seeking a better life,” Ann Meline, assistant director, said. “The exhibit is a captivating reminder of the struggles of our ancestors in Stearns County, and of the similarities contemporary immigrants face today.” Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children. Members of the Stearns History Museum are admitted free. For more information call (320) 253-8424.
