Koochiching Museums
Introduction
The Koochiching County Historical Society (KCHS) is a private, non-profit, educational institution located in International Falls, Minnesota on the Canadian border. The Society was born out of the Old Settlers Association, which began in 1909 and founded by key members of the community who wanted to preserve the history of Koochiching County. In 1958, KCHS was formally incorporated and later absorbed the Old Setters Association, adopting their membership, as well as their historical materials.
The Historical Society and Museums have steadily grown their collections, their physical sites, and their programming for more than 60 years. Over the next five years, the Society will expand on this work, which will include new programming, improved community relations, and the continued development and interpretation of our existing historical collections and archives. With the support of our staff, generous donors, board of directors, and the City of International Falls and Koochiching County Administrations, we are well positioned to pursue these goals.
The Strategic Plan lays out four priority areas KCHS has identified that will guide its work. It will assist the Museums in achieving financial stability by developing meaningful relationships with donors, members, and public officials. It furthers the Museum's work to strengthen the existing collections, as well as identify the stories to be told through our collections and archives. The most important aspects of the plan will focus on ways that we can connect with our audiences directly, to make our history more meaningful, as well as strengthening our organizational culture and diversity.
The Koochiching County Historical Society is a key cultural anchor within our community and provides essential access to high quality collections, exhibitions, and programs for all the residents of Koochiching County and our visitors.