By Kristen Miller Staff Writer

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Just as important as the future is the past, which can be relived at the Cokato Museum and the Gust Akerlund Photography Studio located in downtown Cokato.

A person can see what the town used to be with remnants from some of Cokato’s significant historical landmarks such as the post office, bank, pharmacy and dentist’s office.

With Cokato’s first settlers arriving as early as 1858, the museum captures the lifestyles during that period by featuring period clothing, furniture, and farming equipment.

Besides the permanent displays, the Cokato Museum features special exhibits throughout the year to capture other parts of history and recognize the graciously donated memorabilia.

“It is our goal to keep the museum fresh and exciting for visitors,” said Museum Director Mike Worcester.

Past exhibits included, “Patterns of Love,” which featured a number of quilts and quilt patterns dating back to the early 1900s; “Check My Oil Please,” a display of early gas station equipment and memorabilia; and a photography exhibit featuring past local photographer, Gust Akerlund and his work. This even made WCCO’s “Finding Minnesota” segment.

Akerlund’s studio was built in 1905, and sits on the corner of Fourth Street and Broadway. Managed by the Cokato Historical Society, it has been restored and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The site includes original furnishings, cameras, and other equipment, along with a 12-foot skylight.

Also in the news was the first-ever Upper Midwest Model T Snowmobile Rally featuring several early models of Model T mobiles on skis. Despite the cold temperatures and below-freezing wind chills, these first snowmobiles attracted a lot of attention, not only from onlookers, but the Twin Cities news media, as well. With the success of this event, the second annual Model T Snowmobile Rally is set for Jan. 17-18, 2009.

The museum hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sundays noon to 4 p.m., closed Mondays and major holidays. Tours are available by appointment. Check out the Cokato Museum’s web site, www.cokato.mn.us/cmhs, for more details or call (320) 286-2427.