Free Time Travel!

If you’ve ever wondered what life was like on the Iron Range back at the turn of the last century? It was a time when northern Minnesota loggers brought down trees well over 100 feet high and more than 6 feet in diameter, and compasses didn’t even work properly due to the high concentration of magnetic iron close to the surface of the land.

As the trees came down and the ore was dug up, the cities of the Range were built, and rough-and-tumble towns and logging camps became well-funded communities boasting some of the nation’s first streetlights, indoor swimming pools and ornate high schools.

You can travel back to this time in American history for free at the Hibbing Historical Society Museum and the Virginia Heritage Museum.

The Heritage Museum, located on the edge of beautiful Olcott Park (stroll the grounds, have a picnic, sit by the fountain!) and next to the Mesabi Trail is open by appointment by calling 218-741-1136. Donations are gladly accepted.

Explore the main building, then move on to the former home of the Olcott Park superintendent and a Finnish log cabin. A new exhibit includes railroad artifacts.

The Hibbing Historical Society Museum, located in the Hibbing Memorial Building, is a trove of items from famed Hibbing residents, and offers a great way to learn about “the town that moved” through a diorama, images and more. Open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and by appointment. Call 218-263-8533. Again, donations are greatly appreciated! Both museums are accessible.

Groups are welcome, and tour guides are available to make the experience more fun and meaningful.