The musuem covers exhibits from the geology of the area, through early natives, voyageurs/trapping, logging, mining, how people lived, and an ever changing exhibit on the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

The Ely-Winton Historical Society was started in the 1960s but came to be part of the Vermilion Community College in the 1980s when the State, the City and the IRRRB funded a new Fine Arts Wing to the college which included a state of the art museum for the historical society. We are located at the college but are governed by our own board.

Geological samples, Anishinabi moccasins and examples of beadwork, old logging and mining tools, examples of past businesses, the importance of women on the frontier, and the history of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Many books and files on local history and local people past and present. Microfilm from all the city's newspapers.

We have initiated a study program with the high school Honor Society students to help them learn the history of their town. We have summer programs which teach as they entertain. This year's programs include one of ethnic music, another on old postcards, a lecture on the people of the area, and one of local writers reading from their books. We also publish books of historical and local interest.

The Ely-Winton Historical Society is governed by a board of directors which meet the first Tuesday of each month.

Access: General Public, Students, Scholars, Members

Appointment required: No

We have an annual newsletter that goes out with membership dues letters.