A blue historical marker sign for Old Traverse Cemetery describes its founding in 1856, burial of missionaries, pioneers, and Civil War veterans, and efforts to minister and educate the Sioux people. Trees and grass are visible behind.

Greenlawn Cemetery

Nestled near the historic community of Traverse des Sioux, Greenlawn Cemetery, also known as Old Traverse Cemetery, was the first platted cemetery in Nicollet County.

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A handwritten historical document labeled “Nicollet County Historical Society,” titled "A Bill," serves as a transcript detailing procedures and purposes for the removal of the Capitol of Minnesota Territory, dated December 11 and 27.

Transcript: A Bill for the Removal of the Capitol of the Territory or Future State of Minnesota, and for other purposes

This document contains the text of a bill that was passed by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature in 1857 to transfer the capital of Minnesota from St. Paul to St. Peter. This document has been determined to have been written at that time, but it is most likely a working copy

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Annual Meeting Information Page

To ensure our members are well-informed about the upcoming Annual Meeting and their voting eligibility, below are pertinent details about what you're voting on and elections. Please note that only active members in good standing can vote at the Annual Meeting. According to Article III, Section 5 of the NCHS Bylaws: “No

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A vintage map showing counties in parts of Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa. The map features regions such as Dakota, Sibley, and Hennepin, with details on rivers, lakes, and towns. Borders and boundaries are marked in colored lines.

The Changing Shape of Nicollet County

When Nicollet County was first established in 1853, its borders looked very different from today. Early maps placed its northern boundary along the Crow River, and the county seat moved before settling in St. Peter. Over time, township boundaries evolved, shaping the county we know now. Explore the story of

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A vintage, colored map labeled "Index Map of Mankato" shows city boundaries, streets, railroad lines, the Minnesota River, and labeled wards including North Mankato, First Ward, Second Ward, Third Ward, and Fourth Ward.

Lowertown, North Mankato: History & Heritage

The history of Lowertown in North Mankato, Minnesota, is a tale of geographical changes and shifting boundaries. Initially considered wasteland, the area gained economic value with the construction of a 4-lane highway and subsequent commercial development. The boundary changes and historical events, including floods and proposals for city unification, have

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A triangular caution sign with an exclamation mark is displayed on the left, and the text "Notice of Temporary Changes" is written in bold black letters on a bright yellow background.

Upcoming Repair Work at the History Center Causing Temporary Changes

The week of August 26, the History Center will undergo essential repairs on the heating and cooling system's rooftop unit (RTU). The museum will remain open during this period, so we want to inform you of a few temporary changes.

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Aerial view of a building with an orange roof surrounded by extensive flooding. The adjacent parking lot and surrounding greenery are partially submerged in water. Trees and partially flooded fields can be seen in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Minnesota River Flooding June 2024

Sunday, June 23, 2024 Monday, June 24, 2024 Tuesday, June 25, 2024 Thursday, June 27 & Friday, June 28, 2024 Saturday, June 29, 2024

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A person drives a vintage green tractor in front of a large, gray building labeled "JOHN C. ZINS." An American flag hangs on a pole to the right. A group of people, including children and adults, are sitting on folding chairs along the sidewalk, watching the scene.

Celebrating the Legacy of Zins Hardware & Implement

The journey of Zins Hardware & Implement began in 1892 when John C. Zins was born in Granby Township, Nicollet County, on July 20, 1867.

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a street with cars and buildings

Nicollet County Historical Society Celebrates Historic Preservation Month with a Presentation on Strengthening Community Through Historic Preservation 

Michael Koop’s presentation will cover the variety of work done by Minnesota’s Heritage Preservation Commissions to create a range of tools to educate and reach people and to help conserve important historic properties across the state. The real action in historic preservation is at the local level since the results

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BEYER & BERBRICH SALOON

The intertwined stories of Otto Berbrich and August Beyer mirror the experiences of numerous German immigrants who made their way to Minnesota in the late 1800s. Otto's journey led him from farm laborer to bar owner, while August, arriving in Courtland as a teenager, worked various jobs before becoming a

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