Mission
The Shakopee Heritage Society (SHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the heritage for the city of Shakopee, Minnesota. The SHS can be considered the stewards of the city’s history, architecture, and founding principles that create a proud and eclectic community. Our mission is to preserve history, architecture, stories, events, artifacts and anything Shakopee. Simultaneously, we promote community awareness about the establishment of our river city, development through the Queen Anne period, growth during the industrial revolution, strength during both World Wars, and leadership toward community growth.
Who We Are
Established in 1999, the society consists of a board of trustees, general members, and relies heavily on interested participants who grew up in the city (or proximity) willing to share knowledge and stories about the city. The board consists of seven elected directors that make decisions regarding the education of local history, and recommendations to the county historical society. The board also acts as a liaison for Shakopee collections and archives, municipal and community committees, publications, and membership events. General membership continues to grow and receive a quarterly newsletter, updates on historic stories, and interaction with the board. Membership also receives an invitation to annual meetings, historic presentations, and a group effort to learn and share anything Shakopee.
Affiliations
The SHS has established friendly connections and affiliations with the Scott County Historical Society, Minnesota Historical Society, local retail, city and municipal staff. Feel free to browse, learn, and explore how the Shakopee Heritage Society is dedicated to history and future awareness. Any suggestions or interests are always welcome. Thank you for your continuing support!
What’s New?
- Next presentation is The Great Fire of 1879 on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m., at Shakopee Community Center Ṡakpe ti Senior Lounge
- The Bricks: The People and the Workers in Early Shakopee video has been posted
- Calvary Cemetery Tour 2026 video has been posted
- The St. Mary’s of Marystown and Shakopee Catholic Cemetery tour videos from summer 2026 have been posted
Upcoming Presentations
The Great Fire of 1879
Tuesday, Sept. 8, 1-2 p.m. | Free | Shakopee Community Center Ṡakpe ti Senior Lounge, 1255 Fuller Street South
This presentation discusses the first major fire in Shakopee, that destroyed the west side of Holmes Street and caused the townspeople to fear the city would go up in flames.
Please pre-register with Shakopee Parks and Recreation at the Shakopee Community Center or online through Shakopee Parks and Recreation.
So Groovy! Shakopee in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s
Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2-3 p.m. | Free | Benedictine Living Community, 1705 Windermere Way
This presentation will discuss some of the experiences of people growing up in the 50s, 60s, and 70s, including the Little Store, the Puppet Show, and the swimming pool, along with other memories.
No pre-registration required.




