Explore meticulously curated timelines, primary documents, and expert insights—all designed to transform historical facts into entertaining stories you can trust.

Where the Past Meets Excitement

A man sitting on a gray couch in a bright room with large windows, holding a book and smiling at the camera. On the floor in front of him is a framed souvenir sign that reads 'Souvenir Excelsior Minn.' To his left, there are stacked books and a framed picture with 'Excelsior Park' on it. A small table to the side holds potted plants and a blue cup.
Nathan, Eric, Jon Hofer on the cover of Tonka Living Magazine, June 2026. Pictured with their 1928 Ford Model A roadster.

Established by local historian & author Nathan Hofer, the Minnetonka Minute unites history with accessible storytelling. Drawing on years of work with local archives, community centers, and nonprofits, Hofer translates complex historical documents into clear and engaging resources capable of enlightening adults, children, and history enthusiasts alike.

Tidying Tonka

The Minnetonka Minute is about more than just publishing history articles. We have a strong belief in working with local charities and nonprofits who share our goal of bettering the Lake Minnetonka community. With our free time, we organize a program which we affectionately call “Tidying Tonka.” This monthly event moves around the area with goals of cleaning or otherwise improving a part of the community through litter cleanup, playground / park betterment, or other services.

We encourage our readers to attend! Those who do have the opportunity to meet neighbors, spend time outdoors, and do a little good a the same time.

More Information

Featured in Outside Publications:

  • Nathan, Eric, Jon Hofer on the cover of Tonka Living Magazine, June 2026. Pictured with their 1928 Ford Model A roadster.

    Tonka Living Magazine

    August, 2025 - Present

    Monthly Editorial

  • Nathan, Eric, Jon Hofer on the cover of Tonka Living Magazine, June 2026. Pictured with their 1928 Ford Model A roadster.

    Skipper Living Magazine

    October, 2025 - Present

    Monthly Editorial

  • Front page of the Laker Pioneer newspaper, dated January 3, 2026. The main image shows a man sitting on a couch with a photo album, surrounded by framed pictures and a decorated Christmas tree. A banner reads 'History Lesson.' There is a smaller photo of five men with a 'Happy New Year' greeting. The newspaper includes sections on local history, holidays, and advertisements for insurance agencies.

    Laker Pioneer Newspaper

    January, 2026

    Featured on Front Cover

    “History Lesson” vol. 8, #42

  • MNDL Article

    Minnesota Digital Library / Historical Society

    February, 2026

    Placed 1st in Statewide Writing Competition

    “The Perfect Summer Retreat!”

  • Nathan Hofer pictured carrying trash during Tidying Tonka in Mound, Minnesota.

    Laker Pioneer Newspaper

    April, 2026

    Earth Day feature - “Tidying Tonka” community initiative

  • Laker Pioneer Newspaper logo image.

    Laker Pioneer Newspaper

    May, 2026 - Present

    Monthly Editorial

A postcard image of Big Island Park's tower on Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota, surrounded by trees.

Let’s Stay in Touch!

Interested in deepening your historical knowledge, collaborating on a custom project, or sharing your family’s history in the area? Reach out for a consultation to discover how our resources can enrich your work, studies, or personal exploration.

Have an item of interest? The Minnetonka Minute accepts historical artifacts, memorabilia, books, and more for use in education, children’s programming, community building, and promoting the greater Lake Minnetonka story!

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