The Bryant Library basement in Sauk Centre is filled with thousands of historical materials and items dating back hundreds of years, including "items from the old Keller Manufacturing Plant dating back to the 1840s," said Gunther Austin, Historical Society board member. Between 3,500 and 4,000 people visit the Sauk Centre Area Historical Society exhibits each year, many of these with genealogy related requests. Austin explained the Sauk Centre Historical Society is in the midst of a rejuvenation effort, including upgrading equipment to facilitate the categorization and preservation of the historical items. But to do these much needed projects, they need money. This month they are kicking off a three-year fundraising effort with a goal of raising $100,000. Along with these fundraisers, the society will be applying for local, state and federal grants. Their first fundraiser is the sale of a woven throw depicting historical sites around Sauk Centre. This is one of a couple of fundraisers the historical society will be implementing to facilitate improvements required by the State and National Historical Societies, according to board members Alta Weiner, Bob Borgmann, Joyce Lyng, Gail Nelson-Peterson, Don Spaeth, Pam Borgmann, Arlene Bailey and Gunther Austin. They explained these groups have specific guidelines and rules to preserving historical items; like temperature control, protective coverings, and the handling of these items. They also need more space. Future plans include the possibility of the lease or purchase of a larger facility. Money raised will also be used to retain a full-time manager and an assistant. Currently Marilyn Uhlenkamp is their only employee, working on a limited part-time basis, with the assistance of volunteers from time to time.Community involvement New members are always welcome to join the Sauk Centre Historical Society. They meet once a month, at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday. They invite people to be their guests at any of these meetings, without any obligation. They also plan periodically to write a column in the Sauk Centre Herald to keep the community abreast of historical society information and activities. Members also encourage people from both Sauk Centre and the surrounding townships to continue to bring in old items of interest. To purchase a throw, donate money or volunteer your time, stop in at the Bryant Library, or call the Sauk Centre Area Historical Society at 320-351-8777. You can also contact any of the society's members.
