Collections
The museum is the largest and most comprehensive repository in Minnesota for military artifacts and records.
Museum
The museum artifact collection holds over 80,000 artifacts; uniforms, weapons, equipment, insignia and flags, training aids, and unique personal items. Included are 60 “macro artifacts” such as tanks, aircraft, vehicles, artillery pieces, etc.
Archive
The Museum Archive, the state’s largest military repository, tells the stories of our Veterans, veteran organizations, and military units. It provides provenance for our artifact collections and significance to our exhibits. The diaries, photos, films, maps, documents, and other Archive materials, in conjunction with the museum's artifact and book collections, tell the story of all Minnesota's Veterans from pre-statehood to present.
Library
The museum lending library on military history contains 15,000 circulating books, manuscripts, and pamphlets. In addition, it maintains a large collection of historic military technical and field manuals.
Personal Histories
The museum has a growing collection of Veteran stories from every branch of military service.
Court of Honor
Individuals with distinguished records of military service have been memorialized at Camp Ripley since 1933—initially by having a facility or physical feature named after them.
Educator Tools
If you are a teacher, see how we can enhance your student's group experience at the museum.
General John W. Vessey Collection
The museum serves as the principal repository for the extensive collection of General John W. Vessey, Jr., Minnesota's most decorated veteran. Vessey, born in 1922 in Lakeville, enlisted in 1939 in the Minnesota National Guard, and served in the 34th Infantry Division during WWII, and was appointed the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.