The first BOLD step was to purchase the house next to the History Center at 526 S. Fifth Street to allow for the first phase of growth and investment in our exterior infrastructure. The house was purchased on August 1, 2023. We worked closely with multiple individuals who salvaged building materials for their own restoration projects. In September and October, we collaborated with the City of Mankato Fire Department who held valuable fire training exercises in the house concluding with a controlled burn on October 7. Now the site is ready for the next BOLD step. You made this happen!

Construction has begun on the the History Center’s 30+ year old parking lot to be fully reconstructed with the addition of many new features – the next BOLD step.

• 30+ year old parking lot will be fully reconstructed.
• Parking capacity will increase with eight new spots at the same grade as the main entrance making the parking lot more accessible.
• Two new entrances to the parking lot from South 5th Street.
• Installation of parking lot and building lighting for History Center and neighborhood safety.
• Beautification projects like extension of our native prairie beds, outside gathering space with new brick patio, bike racks, public art, and improved signage.

Memorialize your family name, organization, or business in Blue Earth County history while supporting the Society’s important mission to preserve, protect and share our local history. Commemorative bricks will be placed in the new outside gathering space patio. Funds raised from brick sales will support the parking lot project and future capital improvement projects. Click here to purchase your commemorative brick today!

Thank you sincerely for believing in this BOLD vision and these BOLD steps!

Donate online to the right or below, or you mail a check to:

Blue Earth County Historical Society
424 Warren Street
Mankato MN 56001