MGS City Directory Microfilm
The Minnesota Genealogical Society (MGS) acquired city directories on 96 rolls of microfilm and 12 microfiche cards to fill gaps and replace volumes in its collection that are too fragile for patron use. The purchase completed a collection of Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth city directories through 1920.
City directories are an important source for family history research, especially in urban areas where families moved frequently. Directories give important information about residence, occupation and, often, marital status. Researchers use directories to track families between federal and state census years. Directories from the 1880-1900 period are especially important because the 1890 census was destroyed in a warehouse fire. The purchases will fill gaps in the MGS collection of printed volumes and replace many pre-1920 volumes that are too fragile for patron use.
(b) Statewide Historic and Cultural Grants. (i) $2,250,000 in 2010 and $4,500,000 in 2011 are appropriated for history programs and projects operated or conducted by or through local, county, regional or other historical or cultural organizations; or for activities to preserve significant historic and cultural resources. Funds are to be distributed through a competitive grants process. The Minnesota Historical Society shall administer these funds using established grants mechanisms, and with assistance from the advisory committee created herein.