Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post PHOTO BY: BRADY WILLETTE, COURTESY MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Thanksgiving offers a great opportunity for families to learn more about native history and influence on Minnesota culture.
We’ve all heard the classic tale of pilgrims and native peoples celebrating the first Thanksgiving, but this Thanksgiving, step outside the traditional understanding of the holiday by learning about Minnesota’s first nations and how you can honor their contributions to our state.
Take a Day Trip
Plan a family outing to one of these museums that feature Ojibwe (also: Anishinaabe) and Dakota (also: Lakota) culture. In these spaces, you’ll take in traditional tribal art, learn about the histories of the peoples and grow cultural appreciation by listening to music and storytelling.
Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post
43411 Oodena Drive, Onamia
320.532.3632
Pipestone National Monument
36 Reservation Ave., Pipestone
507.825.5464
Grand Portage National Monument
170 Mile Creek Road, Grand Portage
218.475.0123
Up Your Map Game
You don’t have to travel to learn more about Minnesota’s tribes. Learn more about native history in one click by downloading the Native Land app (available for free on Apple App and Google Play stores). You’ll discover which traditional native lands you’re on—wherever you are! You can use this information to prompt further investigation into the tribe and their history.
Shop Native
One way to support the native community is to purchase traditional artwork and goods. There’s a plethora of local shops you can support, and plenty that you can buy from the comfort of your own home.
Northland Visions
861 E. Hennepin Ave., Mpls.
612.872.0390
Birchbark Books and Native Arts
2115 W. 21st Street, Mpls.
612.374.4023
Woodland Indian Crafts
1530 E. Franklin Ave., Mpls.
612.874.7766
Make a Donation
Native American charities work to support native communities through many different services, from providing resources to educational support. By donating to these charities, you can help preserve native cultures and empower communities.
