Chocolate : The Exhibit at the Minnesota History Center

I heart chocolate and anything to do with this yummy treat. It makes me happy to snack on it! I especially love when chocolate can be incorporated into a learning experience for families.

Did you know that each cacao seed pod is about the size of a pineapple and holds 30 to 50 seeds – enough to make about seven milk chocolate or two dark chocolate bars?

Did you know cacao seeds contain significant amounts of naturally occurring flavonoids, substances also found in red wine, green tea and fruits and vegetables; flavonoids are connected with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and some cancers?

Where does chocolate come from? How is it made? And how has it sweet-talked its way into our hearts? Take a walk through the highlights of “Chocolate” at the Minnesota History Center, Oct. 2, 2010 – Jan. 2, 2011.

Families can take a walk through a tropical rainforest and examine a replica of a cacao tree with its seed pods. Learn about the complex ecosystem that supports the healthy growth of the remarkable Theobroma cacao, the tiny midges that pollinate it, and the birds that make homes in its branches. Learn about the ancient Maya and how scientists have been able to trace the roots of chocolate as a drink to this cultures. The Aztecs also used chocolate as a form of trade. This exhibit explores all the lands and cultures who helped develop chocolate into the delicious treat we enjoy today.

Chocolate means different things to different people. Find out how people cook with it, eat and drink it, and use it to celebrate holidays around the world. Learn about the myths and realities of chocolate’s effect on health.

“Chocolate” and its national tour were developed by The Field Museum, Chicago. This project was supported, in part, by the National Science Foundation

Admission to “Chocolate” is included with regular museum admission of $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and college students, $5 for children ages 6 to 17; free for children age 5 and under and Minnesota Historical Society members. Admission is free Tuesday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m.

A special group rate of $8 per person is available for 10 or more. Plus, ask for the Chocolate “Cookie Tasting” for an extra $3.50 per person and get a cookie nibbler trio served with coffee or cocoa. Call the History Center group sales office at 651-259-3003

Minnesota History Center
345 Kellogg Blvd. W
St. Paul, MN 55101
651-259-3000