[2] The museum showcases a range of exhibits, including displays on steamboats, railroads, logging, Native American history, military artifacts, children's toys, woodworking, and agriculture.

[4] Following negotiations initiated in 1970, the Burlington Northern Depot was acquired by the organization for conversion into a historical museum and was officially dedicated September 4, 1980.

[4][3] In 2004 the society purchased the local Northwestern Bell Telephone building from the Aitkin Iron Works to use to house artifacts currently not on display.

By the early 1900s, Aitkin was emerging as the region's leading supply center, and the old wood-framed depot was considered grossly inadequate.

The depot served as a crucial stop for travelers between Staples and Duluth and symbolizes the importance of the railroad in Aitkin's growth and development.