About Us.
Our purpose and our story.
Nobles County Historical Society preserves the heritage and history of Nobles County, Minnesota: The stories of individuals, the traditions of the communities, as well as the record of Nobles County in a changing world. Because an understanding of the past is vital to a healthy, progressive society, NCHS collects, cares for and exhibits historical treasures; facilitates research into family, local, state and national history; provides educational programs that make history meaningful, accessible and enjoyable; and empowers others to preserve and interpret the history of their families and communities.​
Our Story.
​The Nobles County Historical Society (NCHS) was the product of an Old Settlers Picnic that took place September 10, 1933, at the Chautauqua Pavilion in Worthington. Plans were soon underway to preserve and display articles and papers of historic interest and value. Space was granted in the courthouse to store and display a few small artifacts. Others were stored in various places throughout the county awaiting a permanent location.
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In 1962 a museum was established in the lower level of the Nobles County Library where the collection of artifacts and programming continued to grow. However, a Library renovation in 1996 reduced museum space by 40 percent and NCHS had little room to collect, preserve, exhibit or host programs for the public.
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Finally, in 2021 NCHS moved into our new Heritage Center in the historic Worthington Armory. After an extensive renovation, the 100-year-old Armory has been restored to its former glory with respectful updates for a modern time, and is now home to our offices, store and museum, as well as areas to host programming, and space for our extensive collection of artifacts and records.
