The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe’s history dates back more than 250 years, when our Ojibwe ancestors settled their home in rural East Central Minnesota, bringing with them a rich culture that has transcended the test of time. Today the Band’s language and traditions thrive throughout the Mille Lacs Reservation.

Opened in May 1996, the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post was the product of a partnership between the Minnesota Historical Society and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. Both groups worked together to select a location, an architectural firm, and the content of the exhibits. 

The Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post is dedicated to telling the story of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Adjacent to the Museum is a restored 1930s trading post where visitors can enjoy the historic atmosphere and find authentic, handmade American Indian arts and crafts. 

The Band’s Nay Ah Shing Schools have an Ojibwe Language and Culture Program that brings Elders into classrooms to offer wisdom and knowledge to preschool through high school students. The Band has assisted living units to provide a way for Elders to stay in the community and continue passing on the Ojibwe culture. Elders also serve as advisors to the Band’s government, and many teach classes at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum on traditional Ojibwe crafts.

The Museum offers workshops that feature Ojibwe crafts, many taught by Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe elders, including workshops for making moccasins, beading, sweet grass baskets, birch bark ornaments, woodland pottery, porcupine quill jewelry and others.

Workshops are typically held over two days, with four hours of instruction daily.  Light lunches and discounts are provided for stays at a nearby hotel. Class sizes are kept small to allow for individual attention.  Check the Museum’s calendar to learn about upcoming workshops and register.

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