Historical Society seeking applicants for $7M in grants

The Minnesota Historical Society is seeking applicants for almost $7 million in grants available for history-based projects paid for with money from the constitutional amendment that raised the sales tax.

The society's Britta Bloomberg says the new funding source will make a huge difference.

"This is a great deal of money which I think has the potential to do some tremendous projects across the state," Bloomberg said. "When you realize this is just years one and two of a 25-year period for the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund, and the potential which lies ahead, I think this is a fund which could really reshape the landscape for history and historic preservation in Minnesota for years to come."

Bloomberg says she hopes people and organizations will suggest all different kinds of history-based projects, from collecting oral histories to preserving historical artifacts.

"The purpose of the program is probably simply stated to preserve and enhance access to Minnesota's cultural and historical resources and also to support projects that are of enduring value for the cause of history and historic preservation all across the state," she said.

The Historical Society has created a monthly application process for small grants of up to $7,000. The deadline for medium size grants, up to $50,000 and large grants of over $50,000 is November 23.