2,416 People and 27 Bars: I’ll Drink to That! Shakopee in the 1930s | Tuesday, July 21, 2-3 p.m. | Free | Benedictine Living Community, 1705 Windermere Way
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 2,416 People and 27 Bars: I’ll Drink to That! Shakopee in the 1930s on Tuesday, July 21, at 2 p.m., at Benedictine Living Community, Windermere Way
- Find us at our booth with Scott County Historical Society during Rhythm on the Rails
- 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
2,416 People and 27 Bars: I’ll Drink to That! Shakopee in the 1930s
Tuesday, July 21, 2-3 p.m. | Free | Benedictine Living Community, 1705 Windermere Way
In the 1930s there were 2,416 people who lived in Shakopee. And in that same town, there were more than 27 bars! In this presentation, the names and locations of the various bars in Shakopee, and some of the stories of the people who lived in Shakopee during Prohibition and beyond, will be discussed.
No pre-registration required.
“We Were Here, Too!” African Americans in Early Shakopee
Tuesday, Aug. 11, 1-2 p.m. | Free | Shakopee Community Center Ṡakpe ti Senior Lounge, 1255 Fuller Street South
Discover the stories of 17 African-Americans who lived and worked in 1800s Shakopee, including an African American who was enslaved and escaped from Shakopee; an orderly in the Civil War; a carpenter; an African-American man who headed to Montana territory with Thomas A. Holmes; and a servant whose spirits still lingers in downtown Shakopee.
Please pre-register with Shakopee Parks and Recreation at the Shakopee Community Center or online through Shakopee Parks and Recreation.
A+ for Teachers: Educators in Early Shakopee
Wednesday, Aug. 12, 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Free | Scott County Historical Society, 235 Fuller Street South
Everyone has a favorite teacher. In this presentation, the Shakopee Heritage Society will discuss some of the teachers from the past, including Grace Elizabeth Lehmann Sweeney, Dale Vaughan, Esther Theresa Theis Weinzierl, and other educators who make Shakopee a great place to live.
Please pre-register with the Scott County Historical Society by calling 952-445-0378.
The Bricks: The People and the Workers in Early Shakopee
Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2-3 p.m. | Free | Benedictine Living Community, 1705 Windermere Way
The brick companies in Shakopee, including the Schroeder Brick and Lime Manufacturing Company, the families, the grandson, the lime kiln accident, the children who worked there at 4 cents an hour, and the well-known potter who all worked along the river.
No pre-registration required.