Area History

The people of Greater Mankato are focused on the future.

Our progressive character has its roots in the early 18th-century exploration of the “blue earth” surrounding the bend in the Minnesota River. The history of our drive to become the center of commerce and government in the new state of Minnesota is fascinating, colorful, and at times, tragic.

Greater Mankato maintains significant archives and numerous historical markers throughout the area. Frequent public presentations interpret our past and encourage us to participate in the preservation of the history we are making today.

Blue Earth County Historical Society    www.rootsweb.com/~mnbechs/
415 Cherry St.
Mankato, MN 56001
507.345.5566

Blue Earth County Library System    beclibrary.org
100 E. Main St.
Mankato, MN 56001
507.387.1856

Minnesota State University, Mankato
3097 Memorial Library Services
Mankato, MN 56001
507.389.5952
  E-Museum web address: www.emuseum.mankato.msus.edu/history/oldmankato
  Minnesota Room: www.lib.mankato.msus.edu/lib/lass/mnpage.html

Nicollet County Historical Society
1851 N. Minnesota Ave.
St. Peter, MN 56082
507.934.2160

North Mankato Taylor Library    northmankato.com/library
1001 Belgrade Ave.
North Mankato, MN 56003
507.345.5120

Soderlund Pharmacy Museum    www.drugstoremuseum.com
201 South 3rd Street
Saint Peter, MN 56082
507.931.4410