The Steele County Gem and Mineral Club formed in the fall of 1962, then received their charter in 1963. Some of the original members include Mr & Mrs Bob Huber (where the meetings were held), Clarence and Olive Hanson, Stan and Lorene Kaplan and family, Floyd and Ruth Nielson, and Tom Stockwell. The sole purpose was to share a passion for rock collecting. There were many, many field trips to the q
uarries in the area. As the club grew larger, they moved to to public places to have their meetings. At one time, the club hosted the "All Minnesota Swap", drawing dealers from as far away as Colorado, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri and Arizona. It has been a great success!! We are members of the Midwest Federation of Mineralogical Societies, as well as the American Federation. The mission of the club is to promote the appreciation of gems and minerals, educate on another, and to foster the passion for rock-hounding. Meetings are held the second Monday of every month at the Owatonna Public Library in the Gainey room. The public is invited to attend. Meetings are somewhat informal with all members welcome to participate in the discussion. Members are encouraged to bring rocks each month for show and tell. The specimens can be anything from purchased stones to rocks that have not been identified. We love to pass them around and are willing to help identify them
Members bring a snack to each meeting. There is a free-will donation taken for the snacks which provides the club with some of its operating funds. The OPL ask us to be out by 8:45 so help to clean-up is appreciated. Programs are presented by our members and are done on a volunteer basis. The format can be of the presenter's choice. The club has access to videos from the Midwest Federation, which can be rented free of charge.
7:00-7:15 - Meeting
7:15-7:30 - Show & Tell and Snacks
7:30-8:30 - Program
8:30-8:45 - Clean-up
