Welcome timh.
Do you have a manual?
My first thought the needle was inserted incorrectly. I don't have a Minnesota, but have several VS shuttle machines and the needle is inserted with the flat of the needle towards the right. Then threads left to right. Another possibility is it is threaded incorrectly? It could be either top thread or bobbin thread (maybe you could take out the bobbin and turn it over so the opposite end goes to the point). It helps if you have a manual. Sometimes the manuals aren't the greatest and sometimes I have checked other similar machines to see if better instructions.
Is it a treadle? If it has been electrified, does it have a belt or is it a friction drive machine? Is it possible you are turning the hand wheel the correct direction? Some machines the hand wheel goes clockwise and some go the opposite direction.
Some pictures would help. We like pictures.
Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.