The Minnesota Veterinary Historical Museum was established as a non-profit organization in 1985 to record and publicize the great progress of the veterinary profession in Minnesota and the upper Midwest over the past 100 years and to give credit to those veterinarians responsible for that progress.

The Museum is sponsored as a cooperative project by:

Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association
Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
Minnesota Veterinary Alumni & Friends

Why do we need a veterinary historical museum?

It has been the concern of many that the rich veterinary history of Minnesota and the upper Midwest has not been recorded for posterity. It is felt that veterinary-related memorabilia has been lost and there is little effort being made to collect and preserve this irreplaceable material. To correct this situation the Minnesota Veterinary Historical Museum was created. Its membership consists of members of the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association, College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Veterinary Medicine, Alumni and Friends.

What are the Goals of the Museum?

To be responsible for collecting, cataloguing, restoration and preserving veterinary memorabilia. To work toward developing appropriate utilization, publication and display of this memorabilia.

What type of historical materials are being collected?

The Museum is seeking photos, text books, record books, instruments and literature as well as newspaper clippings, newsletters, documents, medicine containers, membership lists, tapes, slides and films. Such a collection will help to develop an appreciation of the progress that has been made in the animal health care delivery system during the past three generations.

Are contributions or donations tax deductible?

Yes, indeed they are. The Minnesota Veterinary Historical Museum was organized in 1985 as a non-profit corporation and any donation or contribution should be considered tax deductible. A problem that you may face will be establishing the value of items donated. The IRS will not recognize appraisals by members of the museum staff because they say we are an interested party. Your tax consultant should be able to help you on this.

For what purpose will these memorabilia be used?

The potential for use of these materials is only limited by the imagination of those in charge and the funds available. A partial list of the present and possible uses would include the following:

• A permanent Veterinary Historical Museum location, hopefully in the renovated Dairy Barn.
• Gibbs Farm Museum -Ramsey County Historical Society, the 1900 veterinary office.
• Historical booth at the annual convention of the MVMA
• Revolving exhibit in showcases at College of Veterinary Medicine
• State Fair exhibit
• Booth at College of Veterinary Medicine Open House
• Use in a mobile exhibit
• Loans to other historical societies
• Taped interviews of veterinarians, college staff, livestock and pet animal authorities.

Where do I send my memorabilia?

Please deliver, ship or mail the items to:

You will receive an inventory of the items donated, which may be used for tax purposes.

Will an appropriation of money be an appropriate gift to the
Minnesota Veterinary Historical Museum?

As you can imagine funds are needed to further develop the Museum display capability including signs, posters, display cabinets, restoring and preservation materials, photo restoration, mounting, storage and preservation. Record keeping material and publications are also items that need funds. The volunteers can only carry this work out it at a rate dictated by the generosity of sponsoring individuals or organizations and the time available. Contributions are greatly appreciated.

Where is the Museum located and when can it be visited?

Special arrangements to tour the Historical Museum can be made through Dr. Dale Sorensen by calling him at (651) 482-8582.

Who would you contact if you have questions regarding the Museum?

If you have questions about the Minnesota Historical Museum call Dr. Dale Sorensen (651) 482-8582.

Correspondence should be addressed to: