Dassel Area Historical Society
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​In 1993, the old Universal Labs building was donated to the Society. Ownership was transferred to the City of Dassel, and work began on grant funding for cleaning and renovation of the property. The first duty was the removal of six inches of pigeon droppings from the floor. Through several grant and construction cycles, the building was restored to what we see today. It was only possible with funding from the Minnesota Historical Society Grants-in-Aid program, City of Dassel and DAHS members, combined totaling to about $500,000.
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A modern annex completed in 2008 houses offices, meeting rooms, archival storage, kitchen, rest rooms and a welcoming lobby. It also boasts a large community room that can be rented for special events, receptions or meetings.
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With a great facility with wonderful spaces, and enthusiastic staff and volunteers, the DAHS carries out its mission 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.
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The Society is also responsible for the Mushroom Building, a former gas station and now famous Dassel landmark, at the corner of Hwy. 12 and County Rd 4.
The Dassel History Center and Ergot Museum, located in the Universal Laboratories building, is operated by the Dassel Area Historical Society in partnership with the City of Dassel. It is a unique and productive partnership which has resulted in an extraordinary facility and team.
The Dassel Area Historical Society (DAHS) was organized in 1987. The first members had big dreams and $78 in the bank. They have come a long way since those early days.
DAHS now includes approximately 500 households and business from across the United States, with an active and energetic 100 volunteers.
