The Center had humble beginnings in 1969 as a round table with a handful of members. By 1979 we had over 600 interested people receiving a free newsletter. A formal organizational meeting was held electing officers and setting goals and policies. While membership in MGS is not a condition for membership in the Center it is highly recommended if your ancestors were in Minnesota. The Center functions through the efforts of a number of dedicated volunteers who give their time, labor, and talents.
Additional volunteers are always welcome, regardless of where they live.
The major geographic area of interest of the Center is the former Northwest Territory and all of Canada. The Center sponsors four workshops per year at which advanced researchers are on hand to help with technique and method in specific areas of research. New members may join at any time of the year. Membership in the Center runs for 4 consecutive quarters beginning with the quarter in which the membership fee is received. The collection of the Center is the life and blood of the organization.