Step into the quiet charm of Mendota for a one-of-a-kind evening that brings history to life—before it disappears. On Friday, April 18, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m., the Sibley Historic Site will host Vanishing Landmarks at Sibley, a storytelling event featuring celebrated Minnesota photographer and historian Doug Ohman.
Located at 1357 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Mendota, MN, the historic site serves as a fitting backdrop for this exploration into the state’s lost architectural and cultural treasures.
A visual journey through the past
For more than three decades, Ohman has traveled Minnesota’s backroads capturing powerful images of barns, churches, schools, and other rural structures—many of which have since vanished. His lecture will showcase these photographs while sharing stories that underscore the importance of preserving the state’s architectural history.
Ohman’s work has been featured in books, magazines, calendars, and eight PBS television specials. His Emmy-nominated program, Landmarks: Keeping History Alive, helped shine a light on the communities and cultures behind these forgotten spaces.
More than a lecture
Part of the Mendota After Dark series, this evening offers more than just historical reflection. Attendees will enjoy drinks and light refreshments while connecting with fellow history buffs in one of Minnesota’s oldest settlements.
Ticket information
- 🎟 General admission: $20
- 🎟 Discounted admission: $15 for members of the Dakota County Historical Society, Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS), or Friends of the Sibley Site
- Space is limited, and pre-registration is strongly encouraged
To register or inquire: 📞 651-452-1596
📧 sibleyhistoricsite@mnhs.org
Come for the history, stay for the stories, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the vanishing landmarks that shaped Minnesota’s past.