In addition to loaned artifacts, exhibit elements including hands-on pieces, videos, and interpretive panels will head to the Somali Museum of Minnesota for visitors to enjoy after the exhibit closes at the Minnesota History Center on Sunday, June 9, 2019.

“Somalis + Minnesota” was created in partnership with the Somali Museum of Minnesota to tell the story of Somali immigrants, their arrival in their newly adopted home of Minnesota, and the successes and struggles they have faced.

From the beginning, the goal of the partnership was to create an exhibit that could have a longer use than its run at the History Center.

The Somali Museum of Minnesota loaned a number of artifacts to the 2,400-square-foot exhibit including a nomadic hut imported from Somalia, photographs, clothing, jewelry, textiles and other artifacts. The exhibit also features stories by Somali historians now living in Minnesota; and videos and interactive panels that introduce Somali Minnesotans from across the state. For exhibit-goers of all ages, a hands-on activity shows visitors how to load a camel for travel across the desert.

“The exhibit has had an immense impact on the Somali community in Minnesota, those back home and Somalis around the world,” said Osman Ali, director of the Somali Museum of Minnesota. “Surely, all good things must come to end and we are sad to see the ‘Somalis + Minnesota’ exhibit go, but we are happy that some of it will live on at the Somali Museum. Please stay connected with us on social media to find out when items will go on display.”

The public is encouraged to visit the exhibit before it closes at the History Center on Sunday, June 9, 2019. Somali language speakers are available in the gallery daily. Admission to “Somalis + Minnesota” is included with regular History Center admission of $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, veterans/active military and college students, $6 ages 5 to 17, free age 4 and under and MNHS members.

“Somalis + Minnesota” is made possible in part by the Legacy Amendment through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008. Additional support comes from Knight Foundation, 3M and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota.

About the Somali Museum of Minnesota
The Somali Museum is the home of traditional Somali arts in Minnesota. Displaying a collection of more than 700 pieces, and offering educational programs about Somali traditional culture that are not offered anywhere else in North America, the Somali Museum offers an unrivaled opportunity for Minnesotans of all backgrounds to encounter and learn about Somali traditional culture. For more information visit www.somalimuseum.org.

About the Minnesota History Center
The Minnesota History Center houses the collections of the Minnesota Historical Society and is home to the History Center museum with innovative exhibits, Gale Family Library, café and museum store. The History Center is located at 345 W. Kellogg Blvd. in St. Paul. Visit us at www.minnesotahistorycenter.org.

About the Minnesota Historical Society
The Minnesota Historical Society is a nonprofit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs and publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories and connects people with history. Visit us at mnhs.org.