Otter Tail County Historical Society

About Us

Museum, Research Library and Educational Resource

The Otter Tail County Historical Society is located Fergus Falls, Minnesota in the heart of west central Minnesota. We are the official county historical society and collect the history of the entire county.

Who We Are: The Otter Tail County Historical Society is a private, nonprofit organization whose purpose is the collection, preservation and interpretation of Otter Tail County's history and heritage. This is achieved through a variety of services including the Society's exhibit gallery, educational outreach programs, special public programs, archival and object collections, and a genealogical and local history research library. The development of these services has made the Society an active partner in the educational and cultural life of Otter Tail County.

Our History: Otter Tail County Historical Society was organized on July 31, 1927, at a gathering at Amor Park. For decades the Society was headquartered in the basement of the county courthouse. In 1972, Underwood native, John Gronner, lead a county-wide capital fund drive which resulted in a new museum. Ten years later another drive provided funds to add an agriculture wing.

Many volunteer hours have gone into making the Society what it is today. Local artist, Charles Beck, designed and implemented the installation of many exhibits that continue to tell the history of Otter Tail County. We are are a non-profit 501c3 and member supported organization. We offer individual and business membership at a variety of levels. We look forward to your next visit!