heritage collection

Online Collection

Minnetrista envisions a thriving community where people take pride in their accomplishments and aspire to a brighter future. Our Collections and Storytelling division collects, preserves, and provides access to materials documenting the history of the Ball company, Ball family, and East Central Indiana.

 Comprised of more than 18,000 objects and countless archival materials, Minnetrista’s museum collection includes Ball company records and an extensive holding of Ball made products. The collection also features artwork, other regionally manufactured goods, historic textiles, correspondence, photographs, and more.

 Use the button below to browse our collection online. For more information about how to donate items to the Minnetrista Heritage Collection, contact Susan Smith, Archivist.

Research

Not only is Minnetrista a collecting repository, we are open to the public for research and our staff are on hand to assist you.

 Whether you are looking for a photograph of downtown Muncie in the 1940s or trying to find out more about the Ball jars in your own collection, we can help.

 We encourage you to contact us in advance of your visit, so we can ensure your materials are available when you arrive. Have questions or want to make an appointment? Not finding what you’re looking for online? Contact Susan Smith, Archivist.

Hours

Wednesday-Friday; 9 a.m.–5 p.m. by appointment. Contact Susan Smith, Archivist, to schedule a time to visit.