American Indian Movement to add cultural center to Dinkytown

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From aristocrats to squatters, the Henry B. Frey mansion in Dinkytown has seen many owners, but it may soon become a center for American Indian culture.The American Indian Movement Interpretive Center will be a cultural hub cradling 6,000-square feet of artifacts, artwork and original documents.“When [visitors] walk out the backdoor they’ll know everything they ever wanted to know about Indian people,” said Clyde Bellecourt, an AIM founder and the center’s executive director.But the project is still in fundraising stages. The cost of renovating the 120-year-old building and the center’s first-year operations will total an estimated $5.5 million.The center’s board of directors is currently seeking funds through this year’s bonding bill in the state Legislature, said Laura Wittstock, AIM’s capital campaign consultant. The project was not listed on Gov. Mark Dayton‘s proposed bill.Wittstock said if legislative funding doesn’t come through, the board of directors will have to decide whether or not to reapply in 2014. If not, Wittstock will continue seeking private donations. So far, the project has received about $50,000.Historical significanceThe mansion was built in 1892 by Minneapolis lumber magnate Henry Frey, who resided there until 1906. Continue Reading

Reflections on the “1968” exhibit

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The Minnesota History Center’s blockbuster “1968″ exhibit has definitely got museum visitors talking – during and after the exhibit.  Having made but one pilgrimage to the MHC for the exhibit I have been mulling it over in the aftermath of what I do hope is the first of several visits during the month to come.

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