Testimonials
"Arn Kind brings history to life for people of all ages with his hands-on, interactive, historical presentations. He has worked with the Blue Earth County Historical Society Young Historian's program for over a decade enlightening kids on the Fur Trade, Civil War and World War II. His presentations engage all ages by not only making history interesting, but also fun".
Jessica Potter
Executive Director
Blue Earth County Historical Society
"Arn Kind makes history come to life, and he makes students come to life and become enthusiastic about history in a way that no textbook can. He has the students on the edge of their seats and transports them back in time to see what it was really like to be a French Fur Trader, or a soldier during the Revolutionary War, Civil War, or World War II. Taking part in Arn's Civil War presentation is always a highlight of the year for my fifth grade students. They love that they actually get to be part of the presentation. If you want history to come to life for your students, I highly recommend one of Arn's presentations. He's fantastic!"
Tim Hatlestad
Fifth Grade Teacher
Mankato, MN
"Arn Kind was one of my presenters for a Civil War workshop for teachers, and his was far and away the highest-rated presentation of the day! Teachers loved the engaging interactivity and "realness" of Arn's portrayal of a Civil War soldier. His enthusiasm, knowledge of the subject matter, and entertaining characterization made for a fantastic learning experience!"
Jessica Ellison
Education Outreach Specialist
Minnesota Historical Society
"I have known Mr. Arn Kind personally for many years, both as an instructor at Franklin Elementary School in Mankato, MN, as well as a fellow costumed historical interpreter. Mr. Kind has earned a well-deserved reputation among fellow re-enactors for his meticulous historical research and his passion for historical authenticity, coupled with his natural gifts as a story teller. History literally comes alive for his listeners; because Mr. Kind is able to bridge the gap between the historical era he is portraying (Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWII) , and his modern audience. His programs are both informative and entertaining. The result is the creation of a high standard of excellence in re-enacting that his peers have tried hard to emulate. Generations of students have been inspired by Mr. Kind's example: many have gone on to pursue careers in the military, education or public history as the result of having him as their instructor, or participating in one of his camp experiences. I highly recommend Mr. Kind as a presenter in any educational or civic venue he chooses."
Bryce O. Stenzel
M.A.; Author, Playwright, Educator,
Costumed Historical Interpreter
"Each year our 5th grade students experience a Historical Experiences performance by Mr. Arn Kind. It is easily their favorite field trip--even though we are still in our own school gymnasium! Kids will often return to our school and will say how much they enjoyed and remember our "CIVIL WAR DAY". Mr. Kind is knowledgeable and an enthusiastic performer. Kids are enthralled while they listen to and participate in the stories, music, and role-playing. Truly worthwhile for everyone who has this outstanding opportunity!"
Shelly Nelson
5th grade teacher
Lincoln Elementary School, Owatonna
We were pleased to have Arn Kind as our speaker for the monthly meeting of the Anthony Wayne Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. His presentation was educational, interesting and entertaining all at the same time. The information he gave was in depth and showed his excellent research. The costumes added to the effect. We would recommend him to schools and other organizations interested in education and historic preservation."
Susan Carleton Jirele
Anthony Wayne Chapter
Regent Daughters of the American Revolution
"Arn Kind brought history to life for kids who thought they had no connections to a period in time that preceded them. Through music, pictures, props, diagrams, lecture, role-playing, simulations, and passion, Arn captivated his audience and took them on an adventure through the past. My students were 100% engaged and walked away knowing and understanding the importance of that period of time. Spending the day with Arn Kind was the highlight of their year! My students experienced the full spectrum of emotions - curiosity, great sadness, intense pride, elation, and grief as they learned causes of the war, reasons people enlisted, impact on family members, a soldier's life, and the effects that we experience today. Arn Kind has that unique ability to take an audience on a trip into the past- through his extensive knowledge/research of the time period, a strong ability to become a believable character in history, his ability to connect with kids and adults, a contagious sense of humor, and a strong sense of dedication to our history and its importance to each and every one of us. I cannot express how much of a positive and memorable experience it was to have Arn Kind working with my students!"
Martha Bloomenrader
Wilson School, Owatonna, MN
"Arn Kind performed his Civil War Experience in front of a crowd of 75 people in the small town of Hallock, MN. He held the crowd of all ages spellbound for his entire performance. His knowledge and enthusiasm for his subject amazed everyone present. They enjoyed it so much they wanted to learn even more. He presented his program to us six months ago and to this day I have people stopping in the library asking us to bring him back for another one of his programs or the same one. When he does come back I'm sure we will pack the auditorium. We've hosted many programs over the years for the library and Arn Kind's Civil War Experience was at the very top."
Peggy Pearson, Librarian
Hallock Library, Hallock, MN
Presentation Fees
Presentations range from 1.5 hour to 5 hour-all day-immersion experiences. 1.5 to 3 hours is the most common length. Presentation length can be adapted to suit your needs.
* Mileage is calculated at the current I.R.S. rate of $0.67 per mile round-trip from Mankato, MN (presenter’s residence) to the presentation site and back.