Growing up on the east side of St. Paul, Matt always felt a deep connection to Minnesota's history. What started as a childhood curiosity about the past only grew over the years, becoming a passion that shaped his life's work. After earning a BA in History from Metropolitan State University and an MA in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma, Matt knew exactly what he wanted to do: share the fascinating stories of Minnesota with anyone who'd listen.

To Matt, history isn't just about dates or famous figures. It's about the people who lived and worked here—the ones who might not have made it into the history books but still left a lasting impact on their communities. The small business owners who built legacies, the artists whose work lives on long after they're gone, the everyday people who shaped the world around them in ways that often go unnoticed.

When he's not pouring over old photographs or piecing together stories from old newspapers, you can probably find Matt canoeing down the St. Croix River or enjoying a cold Minnesota craft beer, chatting about local history with anyone who'll join in. Through Minnesota Then, Matt is doing what he loves most—helping fellow Minnesotans connect with our past in a way that feels personal, real, and alive.c