Joseph Nicollet and his map
French scientist, geographer, and mathematician Joseph Nicollet led three important expeditions from 1836 through 1839. His Map of the Hydrographical Basin of the Upper Mississippi covered parts of what would become eight states, and was the first to illustrate the height of land on a map–critically important in an area
Bob Looks Back: The Early Years of Nicollet County Creameries
The story of the creameries in Nicollet County revolves around the butter produced during the county’s early years.
Fourth of July
As you celebrate today, take a moment to check out this Fourth of July photo parade. Have a happy and safe weekend!
Nicollet County Duo Collected Rural School Stories
Nicollet County duo collected rural school stories By Bob Sandeen, NCHS Research Assistant Beginning in the 1850s, minutes of the Nicollet County Board meetings contain written descriptions and maps that defined the boundaries of the county’s school districts as they were formed. The Nicollet County Historical Society’s archives include maps
Bob Looks Back: Early St. Peter Churches
Early St. Peter Churchesby Bob Sandeen, NCHS Research Assistant Many pioneer residents began holding religious services in the St. Peter area as soon as possible after their arrival, beginning in the first half of the 1850s. The services were held in private homes, in rented spaces in commercial buildings, and
The Great Storm of 1873
In the early part of this month Minnesota was swept for two days by an icy tempest, unparalled [sic] in our previous history. The storm came with unannounced suddenness, and a day that up to two o'clock in the afternoon was mild; pleasant and even thawing changed to a storm
X Marks the Spot
Traverse des Sioux has always been a great gathering place for people in this area. Human life here dates back 9,000 years. We don’t think about this much today but, the geography of this area makes it an ideal place to live.
Bob Looks Back: The Klossner Bank Robbery
The Klossner State Bank (founded in 1919) was the scene of a bold robbery on November 6, 1923. Thanks to detailed writing at the Nicollet Ledger and Saint Peter Herald, we can piece together the day’s harrowing event.
Asgrim K. Skaro Grand Army of the Republic Post Number 37, St. Peter, Minnesota
By Bob Sandeen Formation of the GAR After the Civil War, many communities in the United States formed posts of an organization known as the Grand Army of the Republic (often referred to as the G. A. R.). Founded in 1866, men who had served in the Union Army, the