History Mystery – Beltrami County Historical Society

The Beltrami County Historical Society invites you to its annual History Mystery event on December 26th and 27th, 2024, at the Beltrami County History Center at 130 Minnesota Ave SW in Bemidji. The event starts each night at 5:30 p.m. and promises a fun, interactive experience where participants can solve a Clue-like mystery set in 1894 at the Carson Trading Post in Bemidji.

 

This year’s theme, “Murder at the Carson Christmas Party,” will transport attendees back to 1894, where they will meet some of Bemidji’s earliest settlers, including the Carson family, the Douds, Shaynowishkung, and others. Local community members will bring these historical figures to life by portraying the suspects in this thrilling historical mystery.

 

Tickets for the event are $15 for adults, $10 for discounted admission (BCHS Members, SNAP cardholders, Veterans, Tribal Members, and Seniors 65+), and $5 for children 12 and under. The ticket price includes live music by Sawyer Corcoran, holiday snacks, a chance to win 1890s-era prizes, and an unforgettable evening unraveling a fictitious historical murder mystery. Tickets may be purchased at beltramihistory.org or the History Center gift shop.

 

Attendees are encouraged to dress in 1890s costumes to enhance the festive atmosphere. Whether coming in period attire or modern dress, this family-friendly event offers an excellent way to enjoy the holiday season while engaging with local history in a unique and interactive way.

 

This year marks the 10th anniversary of History Mystery, a milestone for this beloved community event. Over the past decade, History Mystery has delighted attendees with its blend of storytelling, history, and interactive fun, bringing local history to life. A cornerstone of the event’s success is the involvement of local community actors, who take on the roles of early Bemidji residents, some of whom serve as suspects in this thrilling mystery. These talented individuals bring their unique gifts and theatrical talents to the stage, creating an immersive and dynamic experience for attendees. Their creativity and commitment ensure that History Mystery is not just an event but a memorable journey into the past.

 

This year’s cast includes returning performers Ernie Rall, Vicki Stenerson, Kevin Cease, Michael Meuers, Allison Cease, Cate Belleveau, and Kay Murphy. New to the stage this year are Regan Morgan, portraying his great-great-great-grandfather Shaynowishkung; Hailey Kelly, as Shaynowishkung’s daughter Bahgahmaushequay; and Joel Ward, as George Carson, along with several others.

 

The event is sponsored in part by the Bemidji Area Arts Endowment. Their generous support helps make History Mystery possible and ensures the continuation of this beloved community tradition.

 

For more information and tickets, visit beltramihistory.org, follow us on Facebook at @beltramihistory, or contact the Historical Society at depot@beltramihistory.org or 218-444-3376. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to step back in time, interact with local history, and solve the mystery of the Carson Christmas Party!