The Waseca County Historical Society's Spring Luncheon-Lecture Series is proud to present writer Elizabeth Dorsey Hatle, author of "The KKK in Minnesota" on Thursday, April 24, from noon to 1 p.m.

We all know about "Minnesota Nice," so what were the roots of the organization known as the Ku Klux Klan, and how did it happen in Minnesota? In addition to the speech and books, there will be an original KKK hood on display.

The back cover of the book explains:

"Minnesota might not seem like an obvious place to look for traces of Ku Klux Klan parade grounds, but this northern state was once the home to fifty-one chapters of KKK. Elizabeth Hatle tracks down the history of the Klan in Minnesota, beginning with the racially charged atmosphere that produced the tragic 1920 Duluth lynchings. She measures the influence the organization wielded at the peak of its prominence within state politics and tenaciously follows the careers of the Klansmen who continued life in the public sphere after the Headed Order lost its foothold in the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes." 

Ms. Hatle will speak at noon, take questions and sign books until 1:30 p.m. Paid reservations are required and due by April 22.

The cost is $12 for WCHS members; and $16 for non-members. Call 507-835-7700. The Waseca County Museum is located at 315 2nd Avenue N.E., Waseca, MN.

This activity is funded, in part, by the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council with an appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the State’s general fund.”