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Rochester, Minnesota, was founded in 1854, and today it’s the third-largest city in the state. With a history like that, you know the area is bound to have some fascinating sites to explore. The next time you’re looking to learn something new, make plans to check out a few of these unique historical sites around Rochester.
Plummer Building
The Plummer Building opened in 1928, and now it’s an iconic symbol of the Mayo Clinic. The building was named after Dr. Henry S. Plummer, a man who not only designed the building, but also created many of the medical procedures and systems still in use today. On the outside, the building’s distinctive terra cotta-trimmed bell tower is a centerpiece of Rochester’s skyline and contains a 56-bell carillon that plays daily. Inside, be sure to see the stunning beauty of the lobby that has marble from around the world.
Plummer House
Another fascinating building designed by Dr. Plummer that’s worth seeing is the Plummer House. This English Tudor mansion was the former residence of Plummer and his family. Plummer started construction on his house in 1917. At the time, it included many advanced features, such as garage door openers, a heated pool, central vacuum system, and water tower. You can stop by for a tour of the house and to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds and formal gardens.
Mayowood Mansion
Mayowood Mansion is the former home of Dr. Charles H. Mayo, who was the co-founder of the Mayo Clinic. He built the home in 1911 and lived there until 1939. Today, this 38-room historic mansion is open for public tours. During the one-hour guided walking tour, you’ll have an opportunity to view the extensive decorative arts collection and antique furnishings. You’ll also learn more about Mayo, his family, and his work with the Mayo Clinic. After the tour, you can spend some time strolling through the gorgeous gardens.
History Center of Olmsted County
The History Center of Olmsted County is a great place to learn more about the colorful past of Rochester. The center itself includes two historic farmsteads, several historic buildings, and a museum. When you walk through the museum, you’ll be able to see pictures, diaries, maps, and exhibits that showcase Rochester’s rise from a stagecoach stop to a global leader in health care. You can also take some time to explore the early pioneer home and traditional one-room schoolhouse.
Heritage House Victorian Museum
See what life was like in the 1800s when you take a docent-lead tour of the Heritage House Victorian Museum. This Italianate-style home was built in 1875 for Timothy and Eliza Whiting. Today, it’s authentically restored and decorated with Victorian antiques from that time period. It offers an excellent way to view some of Rochester’s early heritage. During the tour, you’ll be able to see period toys, furnishings, and clothing.
Rochester has a fascinating history that’s perfectly preserved and displayed in these historical sites. Check out some of your favorites to learn more about the city and the people who lived in it.
Image by August Schwerdfeger is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
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