A Champion for Children and Families

CMSM History

Since 2006 southern MN has been growing a family resource

Families of southern Minnesota depend on the Children’s Museum. From its first temporary location, to its current interim site, the Children’s Museum has welcomed more than 50,000 visitors. Today, the Children’s Museum is building the foundation as southern Minnesota’s center for informal learning with an amazing permanent facility. With a capital campaign underway to build in the heart of downtown Mankato, all that’s missing is your support.

Looking for some family fun right now? Check out our current interim site, where everyone has a blast testing the exhibit prototypes that are inspiring permanent exhibits for the new museum.

2006

501(c)3 Non-profit registration

2009

Open first temporary site: 3,000 visitors attend Parking Lot Party

2010

Open second temporary site: 11,000 visits, 26 field trips from 10 counties

2011

Begin permanent building site plan
$1M lead gift from Lyle & Kay Jacobson

2012

Open final temp site with Legacy funds
Launch capital campaign with 50% pledged
Acquire building site