The Isanti County Historical Society ( ICHS ) is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Isanti County for its members , guests , and community . The board manages numerous historic sites throughout Isanti County .

The corporate headquarters and Heritage Center are located in the northwest corner of the Isanti County Fairgrounds in Cambridge Township . The historic Mattson-Norberg Cabin and the Olson Summer Kitchen museums are also located at the Heritage Center and are available for tours from spring through fall .

The Isanti County Historical Society is excited to branch out and grow with the community and its valued members . Executive Director Sam Klocksien is always ready to network with local schools and educational organizations to help bring a better understanding of Isanti County ’ s rich history to people of all ages .

Living History is an important part of programming at the Isanti County Historical Society , as well . Each summer in Cambridge and Spencer Brook Townships history and imagination meld at summer Historic Old Time School programs . Students step back in time to experience one-room school house traditions from late 19th century Isanti County . Information on registration will be available on the ICHS website in early April .

Bradford Township is home to the Historic St . John ’ s German Lutheran Church . Oktoberfest in mid-September offers live German polka music with a dance floor , great German food , and beverages . The German Christmas tradition is celebrated in the first week of January , bringing to life the rites of the Epiphany . Both German and English language programs are offered . These wonderful and unique events from the past are truly special .

Membership to ICHS starts at just $ 25 . With that , you ’ ll receive a quarterly newsletter , discounts at the ICHS gift shop , personalized research assistance , and free admission to guest speakers and most events . ICHS has also updated its online history database which allows visitors and members to keyword search all of the cataloged records in the collections .

Along with many new rotating exhibits and scheduled guest speakers , ICHS is also home to many unique photographs and artifacts from Isanti County , including avid local historian Willard Larson ’ s entire collection of notes , books , and photographs .

“ Not only does ICHS offer many wonderful resources to the public , but it also has a banquet hall and commercial kitchen available for rent . Plan your next business meeting , class , or corporate event locally in Cambridge . Their facility offers seating for 75 guests with its modern new building , expansive and picturesque grounds ; your next gathering is sure to be a memorable one at the Isanti County Historical Society ,” according to Klocksien .

Historical Society Board Directors include President Connie Lindberg , Vice President Susan Morris , Treasurer Pam Baar , Secretary Kelly Lillemoen , Jim Johnson , Clark Joslin , Barb Baar , Kris Parker , Mike Warring , Keith Engstrom , and Robert Fealy-Layer .

For more information on upcoming events , historic sites , or rentals , email Executive Director Sam Klocksien at director @ isanticountyhistory . org , visit online at www . isanticountyhistory . org ; drop by and say hello at 33525 Flanders St . NE , Cambridge , MN 55008 ; or call 763 689-4229 . Hours : Tuesday 9 a . m . – 4:30 p . m ., Wednesday and Thursday 10 a . m . - 2 p . m . or by appointment Monday - Saturday .

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Page 6 Isanti County Community Guide • March 2024