A group of twenty men in military uniforms pose for a formal group photo outdoors in winter, sitting and standing in two rows in front of a building with snow on the ground and trees in the background.

West Point to World War: The Johnson Brothers

Two brothers from St. Peter, Minnesota became high-ranking military heroes. Colonel Franklin and Brigadier General Arthur Johnson's journeys from West Point to the battlefields of the Spanish-American War and World War I are a testament to courage and family legacy. Read their fascinating story here!

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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A handwritten historical document labeled “Nicollet County Historical Society,” titled "A Bill," serves as a transcript detailing procedures and purposes for the removal of the Capitol of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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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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The Kreykes Collection: A Treasure Trove of Wagon Train History

“The chronicle of the wagon train is the story of infant America. Early in the eighteenth century, settlers began moving inland. An endless procession of covered wagons loaded with household goods and supplies headed westward.” So begins the official souvenir program of the Bicentennial Wagon Train Pilgrimage to Pennsylvania. The

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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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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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a church with a large painting on the wall

Harmonizing Heritage

Discover the history of the Vogelpohl & Spaeth organ at Bernadotte Lutheran Church, a cherished symbol of musical heritage and community spirit in Nicollet County.

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