Exhibit Opening "Winston: A Women's Fight for Freedom in Minnesota"

Join us on Saturday, October 11, 2025, as we celebrate the opening of our newest exhibit Winston: A Woman’s Fight for Freedom in Minnesota, the little-known story about Eliza Winston, the first and only enslaved person to successfully fight for her freedom in a Minnesota courtroom.

This namesake exhibit is based on the scholarship of exhibit co-curator Dr. Christopher P. Lehman, author and professor at St. Cloud State University, and features artifacts from our permanent collection as well as newly commissioned artwork. Winston presents the biography of one brave African American woman and the short time she spent in Minnesota. Her story not only sheds new light on local history, but transcends it, establishing significance within national history.

At 11:30 am, there will be a presentation in the museum’s Great Room featuring remarks by Dr. Lehman about his book It Took Courage: Eliza Winston's Quest for Freedom, and a reading by Mary Moore Easter, poet and emerita professor from Carleton College, who will read from her book Free Papers, which was inspired by the testimony of Eliza Winston.

A book signing will follow the program. Books are available for purchase that day in the museum's store. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Reservations required.  A $10 donation is encouraged for this program.