The Arv Hus Museum is a cultural heritage center located in Milan, Minnesota. Established in 1984, the museum's name translates from Norwegian to "Heritage House."[1] The Arv Hus Museum showcases the artistic traditions brought by Norwegian immigrants and local history of the region, with a particular focus on Norwegian Rosemaling, a decorative painting technique.

Arv Hus Museum
Street facade of Museum
Map
Established1984 (1984)
Location228 Main Street, Milan, Minnesota 56262, United States
Coordinates45°06′41″N 95°54′42″W / 45.111389°N 95.911667°W / 45.111389; -95.911667
TypeLocal history

The museum was established in 1984 by Billy Thompson who started the museum in a building that was once a harness shop run by Thompson's great-grandfather.[2]

Milan Arv Hus Society

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The non-profit organization Milan Arv Hus Society serves as the governing body, overseeing the museum's operations, collection care, and educational programming.[1] The society plays a crucial role in fundraising, ensuring the museum's continued success in preserving and sharing the stories of the past.

Educational Programming and Collections

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The museum contains a collection of vintage photographs and artifacts in rough-cut frames made from local wood, and stories and items from early settlers in the Milan area.[3] Exhibits use items from both privately owned sources and items donated to the organization. The museum also displays the sawdust artwork of its founder, Thompson.[4][5]

The museum's collection features works by world-renowned Norwegian Rosemalers, including intricate floral designs on a variety of objects. Visitors can also view a mural by Augsburg artist Phillip Thompson alongside other exhibits that explore the cultural heritage of the area.[6] The Arv Hus Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the traditions they brought with them.[5]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Milan Arv Hus Society - GuideStar Profile". www.guidestar.org. Retrieved 2024-05-16.
  2. ^ Simpson, April (2020-08-26). "Milan, Minnesota swelled with immigrants. But will the census count them? • Minnesota Reformer". Minnesota Reformer. Retrieved 2024-05-16.
  3. ^ Meyers McClintick, Lisa. "Nordic arts anchor rural school in Milan, Minn". Star Tribune. Retrieved 2024-05-16.
  4. ^ "(16a) Arv Hus Museum". www.milanmn.com. Retrieved 2024-05-16.
  5. ^ a b "Arv Hus Museum". Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway. Retrieved 2024-05-16.
  6. ^ "Milan Arv Hus Museum". Explore Minnesota. Retrieved 2024-05-16.

See also

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