Maurice Stans: The Early Years
Maurice Stans grandparents immigrated to America from Belgium. His mother's family was known for their brewery located in Shakopee, while his father's family included notable musicians. He grew up with his parents and sister in a small house next to the railroad tracks. When he graduated from high school in 1925, he left to attend college in Chicago. While living in New York, he met a fashion model who would later become his wife of 51-years. Although he never again lived in Shakopee, Stans attributed his success to the solid education he received there and repeatedly gave community support. Family photographs and childhood mementos begin Stans' story on exhibit.

Stans Career in Business & Government
While living in Chicago, Stans began working for the accounting firm of Alexander Grant & Co. By 1940, he was the sole owner of the firm. When he left in 1954, the company had offices in 20 cities and over 400 employees. Stans dedicated a considerable amount of time and effort to his profession, testifying before the Senate Finance Committee and serving as president of the American Institute of Accountants.

Stans left the private sector to work for the federal government; first as director of the Bureau of the Budget for President Eisenhower and later as secretary of commerce for President Nixon. Stans left his position in 1972 to fundraise for Nixon's re-election campaign. His association with Nixon led to suspicions of Stans' involvement in the Watergate scandal.

Items from his years of service are on display including gifts from foreign dignitaries and an oil painting by President Eisenhower.

Stans' African Travels
During a trip to Kenya in 1948, Stans fell in love with Africa. Stans collected numerous artifacts during all19 trips he made to the continent. While they were once used to decorate his Washington, D.C. apartment, the paintings, masks, spears, and other objects are now on display. The gallery is highlighted by a diorama featuring an African lion and zebra.

Stans Biography

Stans Boyhood Home