Minneapolis Kennel Club Records

Collection

Identifier: M/A 0101

Staff Only

Description of Contents

The collection includes MKC Newsletter (1956-1968), member’s rosters (1942-1964, incomplete), miscellaneous papers, scrapbook of newspaper clippings (1933-1963), and several dog show photos.

Dates

Creation: 1933 - 1968

Creator

Minneapolis Kennel Club (Organization)

Access

The collection is available for use in Special Collections at Minneapolis Central Library during the department's open hours.

History

The Minneapolis Kennel Club (MKC) started on October 23, 1933. Their mission: “…further the advancement of all breeds of purebred dogs, to advance the interests of dog shows and obedience trials, and to encourage sportsmanship at such events.” Founding board of directors included Edwin L. Pickhardt, Charles B. Owen, Roger B. Stahn, Paul M. Kroeger, Russell C. Rosenquest, Harold R. Ward, and Maurice L. Baker. The first MKC dog show took place at the Minneapolis Auditorium in downtown Minneapolis on April 21, 1934. Subsequent venues included Ft. Snelling Polo Grounds, 1934; MN State Fair Grounds, 1936; Minneapolis Aquatennial parade grounds, 1941; and Minneapolis Radisson Hotel, 1947.

The shows, membership, and frequency of events grew as the years went on. Moreover, the MKC expanded into projects other than dog shows to help promote the well-being and betterment of dog breeds. Projects included scholarship funds to University of Minnesota students interested in small animal husbandry programs and donation programs to the Hennepin County Humane Society, American Kennel Club Dog Museum, Canine Defense Fund and other organizations.