Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 6pm at the RCHS Museum

Join us for an engaging exploration of mortuary archaeology, the study of ancient burial practices and their cultural significance. This presentation will delve into the methodologies used to uncover and analyze burial sites, revealing insights into the beliefs, rituals, and social structures of past societies. We will discuss key case studies, highlight the importance of grave goods, and examine the ethical considerations involved in this sensitive field. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious learner, this session will illuminate the fascinating intersection of archaeology and human mortality.

Jenna Nelson is the Curator at the Rice County Historical Society with over 8 years of experience in the field of anthropology. She graduated from Humboldt State University (now Cal Poly Humboldt) with a Master’s in Applied Anthropology, where she received training in archaeological methods and techniques, preservation, collection maintenance, and qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

Program is free for members, $5 for non-member. To reserve your spot call 507-332-2121 or email us at rchs@rchistory.org. 

Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 6pm at RCHS Museum

Uncover the hidden stories of Rice County’s early African American residents (1850-1900) and help create beautiful mosaic flower memorials to honor their legacies.

What to Expect:
Learn about local history from professional genealogist and public artist Mica Lee Anders

Create mosaic flower sculptures in a collaborative, welcoming environment

Connect with diverse community members and descendants of early residents

Contribute to a meaningful public art installation at historic gravesites

No artistic experience necessary – all are welcome!

Be part of this powerful journey of discovery, creativity, and community building. Your participation will help uncover forgotten stories, honor overlooked legacies, and create meaningful connections that span generations.

This workshop is free to the public, register now: call 507-332-2121 or email us at rchs@rchistory.org

This project is made possible in part by Springboard for the Arts’ Rural-Urban Solidarity Initiative. Join us in building understanding and compassion between rural and urban communities through art and shared history.

Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 7pm at the Rice County History Museum

Faribault’s Oak Ridge Cemetery is a gem, and is the final resting place of many of the area’s earliest settlers. Come learn how the cemetery was formed, how it was run, and how it is being preserved for future generations to utilize and enjoy. Learn about some of the key people and families who did the groundwork to make Faribault and Rice county the wonderful place it is today.

Tom Rent, an Oak Ridge volunteer, will lead the presentation and will share stories, photos, headstone symbology, preservation methods, and plans to maintain Oak Ridge far into the future.

This program is free to members, and $5 for non-members. To Reserve your spot please call 507-332-2121 or stop into the museum.

Saturday, June 29th, 2024 from 7 – 10pm at Stone Orchard Events (3050 197th St E, Faribault, MN 55021)

Calling all Rum Runners, Flappers, Bootleggers, and Moonshiners! Come out and support your local history with a night of dancing, drinks, fun, and more as we step back into the 1920s. When Prohibition closed bars and made alcohol illegal, illicit bars called Speak Easys popped up all across America. These bars were secret and kept the American people flowing in liquor and spirits.

Join us as we relive this bit of history, we will have swing and jazz music, drinks, a raffle and more. If you are want, come dressed to impress for our 1920s costume contest and be sure to remember the password: “Blind Pig”!

Tickets are on sale at the RCHS museum, so be sure to call in at 507-332-2121 or stop down to get yours today. Tickets are $25 a person. We will be requiring ID for this event so be sure to bring it with you. Help support local history and have fund doing it! As one of our biggest fundraisers of the year, this event helps ensure we can continue our mission to Discover, Collect, Preserve, and Share the History of Rice County!