Your History MN started as an oral history project with one woman, Dorothy. Dorothy’s father was a fantastic storyteller. He shared stories about when his family immigrated from Denmark to the United States, what it was like being a settler, and what life was like in early Minneapolis. 

Listening to stories from the past

While chatting with Dorothy, the Your History MN Founder Pam Dewey realized how much she liked talking with people and hearing their stories. This wasn’t exactly new information, but she’d never considered herself a historian. And yet, what is history but other people’s stories from the past? 

More than just hearing Dorothy’s stories, Pam enjoyed talking with Dorothy. Pam loved hearing about when Dorothy taught tennis at a university, despite having never played tennis, particularly the mystery about why the court was covered in manure. She loved learning Dorothy’s lore.

We want to preserve your family lore

A family’s lore are treasured stories told over and over again. And yet, too often, we don’t get these stories written down or recorded. Dates and names get fuzzy. Loved ones pass away, and we can’t remember the name of the school Grandpa attended when he was a boy. Or, what was name of mom’s childhood pet that she loved so much?  

These stories reflect our past, but also shape who we are, today. Perhaps your youngest child loves to draw, which isn’t a surprise because their great grandmother was a well-known artist in France. If only, you’d saved more of her drawings or written down where she had her first gallery showing. These memories are important, and we want to help you preserve them.

Recording your family’s stories, now

Your History MN can take away the “if-onlys” and give you chance to record these stories now, while your loved ones are still with us. We also understand working on this type of project with a family member can be difficult, particularly when you’re busy with your own career, family, and commitments. 

We love stories and connection

That’s where we can help. Your History MN is a group of people who love stories and connecting with others. We want to save the family lore for future generations by creating oral history narratives and audio recordings. But more than that, we want to get to know your loved ones.

Connection is so important, especially as you age. Your History MN is more than just an oral history project; it’s a way to spend time with and care for each other. 

Interested in signing up? Send us an email, or give us a call at (507) 412-6060‬.