Pine River and Little Falls named recipients of heritage grants

The Pine River Fire Department and the Minnesota Military Museum in Little Falls were named recipients of Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants.

The Minnesota Historical Society announced Wednesday the first 27 recipients of mid-size and large grants for fiscal year 2010. An additional 56 organizations received $248,787 in fast-track grants, for a total of $1,711,287 awarded for projects of enduring value. More than 50 communities throughout Minnesota will benefit from the grants.

Pine River and Little Falls each received a fast-track grant. The Pine River Fire Department received a $1,695 grant to professionally assess the condition of a 90-year-old horse drawn fire apparatus.

Minnesota Military Museum received a $7,000 grant for costumes and to equip seven mannequin figures for a major exhibit commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and Minnesota's tragic Dakota War of 1862.

Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants are made possible by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund with passage of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment by the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008. The amendment supports efforts to preserve Minnesota land, water and legacy, including the state's history and cultural heritage.