Dassel Area Historical Society

The Dassel Area Historical Society (DAHS) was begun in 1987. The members had big dreams and $78.00 in the bank. But, “we’ve come a long way…,” as they say.

The DAHS includes approximately 500 households and businesses from across the U.S. in its membership and boasts 100 active and energetic volunteers.

The society now has an award-winning home, the Universal Laboratory building which was given to the DAHS in 1993 and is now city-owned. With grants from the State Legislature through the Minnesota Historical Society Grants- in-Aid Program, the city of Dassel, and the generosity of the members totaling nearly $500,000, the ULB has been beautifully renovated.

A modern annex completed in 2008 houses offices, meeting rooms, archival storage, kitchen, rest rooms, and a welcoming lobby. The City of Dassel added a large community room to the annex which can be rented for receptions and meetings.

With a great facility with wonderful spaces, and enthusiastic staff and volunteers, the DAHS carries out its vision to Preserve the Past, Enrich the Present and Secure the Future. The Dassel History Center and Ergot Museum has truly become the heart of the Dassel extended community. Visitors are most welcome Tuesday – Friday from 10:00 to 4:00 and Saturday from 9:00 to 1:00.

The Society is also responsible for the Mushroom Building, formerly a gas station and now a Dassel landmark located on Highway 12. During the summer, June through August, there is entertainment at that site one evening each week.