By Rich Larson
The Northfield History Center will celebrate its 50th Anniversary this Monday, with a party at Loon Liquors. The free community celebration will feature a silent auction, live programming, and opportunities for residents to learn more about the organization’s ongoing “Save the Scriver” capital campaign.
Event organizers say attendees can expect a lively, open-house style gathering across multiple spaces inside Loon Liquors. A silent auction will showcase donated items from local businesses and supporters. Board member Kosmo Esplan will also record a live edition of his show, Trek Through Time, featuring conversations about the History Center’s impact over the past five decades.
The celebration doubles as a fundraising push as the organization works to restore and preserve the historic Scriver Building, home to the museum since 1976. Executive Director Sean Allen said the campaign has already received strong community support, but significant work remains. Renovations currently include exterior stone restoration, updated masonry, and future window replacements. While the scaffolding is expected to come down before September’s Defeat of Jesse James Days celebration, some elements—such as new windows—will arrive later in the fall.
Founded in 1975 by a group of local volunteers, the Northfield Historical Society—now known as the Northfield History Center—quickly transformed the Scriver Building into a museum dedicated to preserving the city’s past. Over the years, the site has evolved from a modest exhibit space into a central hub for local history, education, and tourism.
Looking ahead, the History Center is planning a special highlight for this year’s Defeat of Jesse James Days. In partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society, Allen said the museum hopes to display what is believed to be the only surviving duster worn during the 1876 raid. The artifact, rarely shown publicly, will be featured pending a site approval by the Historical Society
Organizers say Monday’s anniversary party is both a celebration of the past and a call to support the future of Northfield’s historical preservation efforts.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
