Allison Quam, the Archives & Special Collections Librarian at Winona State University, chose this photograph of a kindergarten class at the Winona State Normal School from their collection:

Table Work of the Model School Kindergarten Students at the Winona State Normal School, c. 1910

In 1858, the Minnesota State Legislature founded the first State Normal School in Winona, marking the establishment of the first teacher-training institution west of the Mississippi River. Classes began in 1860 in a building donated by the City of Winona, which is the current location of the city hall. Winona’s Normal School pioneered a “model school” program, providing an environment where training teachers could observe and teach under the mentorship of experienced educators. This program became a cornerstone for teacher training in the state.

During a visit to St. Louis in 1875, Dr. Irwin Shephard, an influential educator in Winona and later President of the Winona Normal School, attended a lecture on the kindergarten movement. Inspired by Friedrich Froebel’s innovative theories on early childhood education, Dr. Shephard became a passionate advocate for integrating Froebel’s methods into the training curriculum and model school. Froebel’s approach emphasized creativity, play, and hands-on activities as foundational elements in developing young minds.

By 1880, Winona Normal School had established Minnesota’s first kindergarten as part of its model school. This initiative provided a space where four- and five-year-olds could explore and learn under the principles of Froebel’s philosophy. Tuition for the program was set at eighteen dollars per year to cover expenses. Although the State Normal School Board supported the initiative, they stipulated, at the time, that no additional funding would be allocated to support this new endeavor. Despite these financial constraints, the kindergarten thrived, setting an example for early childhood education in the state. By 1912, the Normal School had to expand its Kindergarten program and maintain three classrooms.

This image is emblematic of the Froebelian principles that guided the Winona Normal’s Model School kindergarten program—play-based learning, hands-on activities, and the harmonious balance between structure and spontaneity. In his “Historical Sketch and Notes,” C.O. Ruggles highlights the far-reaching impact of the kindergarten department, noting its significant contribution to the development of kindergarten and primary education throughout the state. Froebel’s “Gifts”—including building blocks—were central to this philosophy, enabling children to explore concepts like symmetry, balance, and spatial relationships through play. These simple tools were not merely toys but instruments of discovery, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

This photograph reflects a broader cultural shift towards recognizing the importance of early education. Activities such as gardening, field trips, and crafting reinforced the value of experiential learning. The vibrant energy captured in this moment underscores the enduring legacy of Winona Normal School’s commitment to innovative teaching methods and the profound potential of nurturing creativity in young minds.

This photograph is part of a collection of kindergarten photographs housed in the Winona State University Archives & Special Collections. I am drawn to this particular image because the scene is both serene and active. This photo demonstrates the spontaneous and directive learning that occurred in the earlier years of the Normal School. The students are focused and engaged with Froebel’s “Gift” of building blocks. On the chalkboard in the top left corner lists the schedule for the morning’s activities: Circle, Rhythm, Table, Lunch, Stories, and Games. This structured yet dynamic routine, starting at nine o’clock and concluding at noon, offers a glimpse into organized and enriching daily exercises.

The Winona State University library holds archives related to the records and early development of the institution, the oldest "normal school" west of the Mississippi River and the birthplace of the National Education Association. Images Winona State University contributed to the Minnesota Digital Library show campus activities including faculty, students, athletics, activities, and class photographs.

Browse the Winona State University collection in MDL.

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