About Us

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Prospect House and Civil War Museum, formed to share the story of “Cap” Colehour, Civil War Veteran and entrepreneur, who settled in the West Central Minnesota community of Battle Lake after the Civil War. The purpose of sharing “Cap’s” house, observations, memorabilia and life is to open a door to history through which those who pass achieve greater understanding and appreciation for an earlier and important time in the making of our nation. 

Mission Statement

The Prospect House Museum provides unique educational experiences based on authentic objects, stories and life of an American pioneering family. The Prospect House Museum also explores the stories of the Battle Lake Area as a vacation destination, past, present and future, to inspire residents and visitors with the creativity and enterprise of the human spirit. 

Vision Statement

The Prospect House Museum is the clearinghouse for stories and histories of the Battle Lake Area, in particular its history as a vacation destination. Drawing on the history of the Prospect House and the Colehour family as well as stories of other resorts and families in the area, the Prospect House will provide engaging programs to the Battle Lake community and to summer visitors that will connect participants to the people who shaped this community and to the opportunities that face the community as it plans for the future.