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EXHIBITS

The Beltrami County Historical Society offers permanent and temporary exhibits that explore the history of the people and places of Beltrami County.  The museum is housed in the History Center at the historic

Great Northern Depot in Bemidji.

 

We share our community history through photographs, text, and artifacts.  We welcome your visit and exploration!

Future Special Exhibits

Empowering Women: Beltrami County's Journey towards Equality
Special Exhibit, March - December, 2025

In recognition of the 50th anniversary of the 1975 UN Conference on Women, BCHS’s upcoming exhibit will celebrate Beltrami County Women. Through historical artifacts, photographs, interactive displays, and personal stories, “Empowering Women” will highlight Beltrami County's journey towards gender equality and the contributions of local women to our shared history.

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BCHS will also partner with local women’s advocacy organizations to present a co-exhibit: “Stolen Histories: Examining the Histories Taken Through Violence Against Women.”

Through "Empowering Women," the Beltrami County Historical Society aims to inspire, educate, and empower visitors to become champions for gender equality in our community and beyond. Together, we can continue the legacy of the 1975 UN Conference on Women and create a more just and equitable world for all.

Related Programs

  • Panel discussions featuring local activists, scholars, and community leaders discussing current issues and challenges related to gender equality.

  • Workshops by local women who have made significant contributions to education, healthcare, politics, business, and the arts.

  • Workshops and educational programs focused on empowering women and girls through skills-building, leadership development, and advocacy training.

  • Role of the “Auntie” in Native American communities.

  • Film screenings and book clubs highlighting stories of resilience, activism, and social change by and for women in Beltrami County and beyond.

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PERMANENT
EXHIBITS

Early Land and County History
West Gallery

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Long before Beltrami County and its townships were established, the land and waters evolved as glaciers melted and glacial lakes receded, forming the lakes, rivers, and lands that we are familiar with today.  This portion of our gallery explores the area's early land history and first inhabitants through European settlement, as well as artifacts of Native American communities established in the area prior to settlement.

Great Northern Railroad Ticket Office
West Gallery

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Visit the original Ticket Office for the Great Northern Depot, which opened to the public in 1913.  Try out the Depot Telegraph, explore railroad tools, and learn more about rail operations.  The railroad model in this room is maintained by the Northern Iron Horse Railroad Society - press the button to watch the train move around!

Local Anishinaabe History
West Gallery

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Visit the original Ticket Office for the Great Northern Depot, which opened to the public in 1913.  Try out the Depot Telegraph, explore railroad tools, and learn more about rail operations.  The railroad model in this room is maintained by the Northern Iron Horse Railroad Society - press the button to watch the train move around!

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Permanent Exhibits
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