National Register Listing

Cowing, Thomas F., House

a.k.a. Inwards,Frederick E. & Dorathea,House

316 Jefferson St., Alexandria, MN
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Exploration/settlement; Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

commerce exploration settlementT politics government architecture houses residential buildings
Minnesota is home to the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior. It covers over 31,000 square miles and contains 10% of the world's fresh surface water.
Minnesota random facts
Douglas County, located in the state of Minnesota, has a rich history that goes back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Dakota Sioux tribes, who relied on the land for hunting and gathering. In the 19th century, European settlers arrived in the region, attracted by the vast natural resources and promises of fertile land for farming.

The county was officially established in 1858 and named after Stephen A. Douglas, the U.S. Senator from Illinois. Early settlement was challenging due to the lack of infrastructure and harsh weather conditions. However, the discovery of natural resources such as timber and iron ore brought new opportunities for growth and development. Logging became a prominent industry, with sawmills popping up along the many lakes and rivers of the county.

In the late 1800s, agriculture became the backbone of Douglas County's economy. As more settlers arrived, farms started to dominate the landscape, and the county became known for its bountiful crops of wheat, corn, and oats. The development of railroads further facilitated the transportation of goods and fueled the county's economic growth.

Over the years, Douglas County has undergone significant transformations. The decline of the logging industry in the early 20th century led to a shift towards other industries, such as manufacturing and healthcare. Today, the county is home to a diversified economy, with a range of industries including agriculture, healthcare services, education, and tourism contributing to its vitality.

Throughout its history, Douglas County has remained resilient, adapting to the changing times while preserving its natural beauty and small-town charm. From its early days as a frontier territory to its current status as a thriving community, the county's rich heritage continues to shape its present and future.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Douglas County, Minnesota.

  • 1858 - Douglas County is established, named after Stephen A. Douglas, a politician from Illinois.
  • 1862 - The Dakota War of 1862 results in the evacuation of settlers from Douglas County.
  • 1865 - Settlers begin to return to the area and repopulate Douglas County.
  • 1887 - Alexandria, the county seat, is incorporated as a city.
  • 1890 - The population of Douglas County reaches over 16,000 residents.
  • 1910 - The automobile industry begins to have an impact on transportation in the county.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic challenges to Douglas County.
  • 1940s - Douglas County experiences an increase in population and economic growth after World War II.
  • 1957 - The Interstate Highway System is established, connecting Douglas County to other parts of Minnesota.
  • 1970s - The construction of Interstate 94 is completed, further improving transportation in the county.
  • 2000 - The population of Douglas County reaches over 32,000 residents.