Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum 

Southern Minnesota

Contact Information

Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum

540 W Hills Cir
Owatonna, MN 55060

From I-35 near Owatonna, exit 41 (Bridge St). E 1/2 mi to State Ave, turn Left. Follow State Ave 1/2 mi. Follow signs.

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About

There were 10,635 "State Schoolers" between 1886 and 1945 -- kids orphaned, abandoned, or abused and sent to the Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Relive history through the Orphanage Museum with pictures, artifacts, and personal stories. Don’t miss the newly restored Cottage 11, State School Kids' Memorial, Children's Cemetery, Flag Pole Plaza, and Rock Garden. Our outdoor audio tour will guide you across the campus, with stories of children’s lives here.

Cottage 11 is open six days a week for afternoon tours. Check our website for seasonal hours. Cottage 11 is air-conditioned in the summer and handicapped accessible.

Main Museum:
M-F 8AM-4:30PM
and Sa-Su 1-5PM.
Closed major holidays.
Weekend access through Owatonna Arts Center.

Cottage 11:
Open Tues-Sun.
Hours: May 1 - Labor Day: 1-4PM; other months 1-3PM.
Closed Jan and Feb. C-11 closed major holidays.

Dates

Main Museum:
M-F 8AM-5PM and Sa-Su 1-5PM.
Closed major holidays.
Weekend access through Owatonna Arts Center.

Cottage 11: Open Tues-Sun.
Hours: May 1 - Labor Day: 1-4PM; other months 1-3PM.
Closed Jan and Feb. C-11 closed major holidays.

Rates

Admission is free, but a $2.00 donation per person is suggested.

For information on guided group tours call 507-774-7369.

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