Northern Pacific Depot
20 Pacific St., SW, Aitkin, MNThe Northern Pacific Depot in Aitkin is significant as a local landmark symbolizing the importance of the railroad in the growth and development of the community. Aitkin was founded shortly after the Northern Pacific Railroad constructed the initial rail line through Aitkin County in 1871. The small settlement quickly developed into the region's leading supply center for the extensive logging operations which accompanied the arrival of the railroad and, later, as the area's foremost agricultural service center. By 1900 Aitkin's population had swelled to nearly 2000. Increased business and agricultural activity and heightened awareness of Aitkin's prominent regional position resulted in community demand for improved rail facilities. Aitkin's citizens considered the old depot grossly inadequate to meet the ever-increasing passenger traffic generated in Aitkin. The construction of a new depot quickly became a matter of civic pride. The Northern Pacific Railroad delayed action for several years before succumbing to mounting pressure in 1915. The depot served the community's passenger transportation needs until the 1940s when passenger service was discontinued. The railroad's significant role in Aitkin's development has been recognized by the Aitkin County Historical Society which acquired the depot for museum purposes in 1972.
Local significance of the building:
Transportation
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
About National Register Listings
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.
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The first European to explore Minnesota was French explorer Jean Nicolet in 1634. He traveled along Lake Michigan and the Fox River and likely reached the present-day state of Minnesota.
About Aitkin County
Aitkin County Timeline
Aitkin County, located in the central part of Minnesota, has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally home to the Dakota and Ojibwe Native American tribes, who relied on the abundant natural resources of the region for their livelihoods. European exploration and settlement began in the 17th century, with French traders and voyageurs making their way to the area to trade furs with the Native Americans.
In the mid-19th century, the US government established a trading post in Aitkin County, which helped to facilitate further settlement in the area. The county was officially established in 1857, named after William Alexander Aitkin, a prominent fur trader in the region. The lumber industry soon became a major economic driver for the county, with numerous sawmills established along the area's rivers.
The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further spurred growth and development in Aitkin County. The county became a hub for logging and timber transportation, as well as providing a means for settlers to access the area. The county's economy diversified over time, with agriculture playing an increasingly important role alongside the timber industry.
Today, Aitkin County is a thriving community that embraces its natural beauty and history. Outdoor recreation, such as fishing, hunting, and hiking, is a popular activity in the area. The county's historical sites and museums, such as the Aitkin County Historical Society and the Aitkin Depot Museum, provide a glimpse into the area's past. Aitkin County continues to be a place where residents and visitors can appreciate the unique combination of natural resources and rich history that the region has to offer.
In the mid-19th century, the US government established a trading post in Aitkin County, which helped to facilitate further settlement in the area. The county was officially established in 1857, named after William Alexander Aitkin, a prominent fur trader in the region. The lumber industry soon became a major economic driver for the county, with numerous sawmills established along the area's rivers.
The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further spurred growth and development in Aitkin County. The county became a hub for logging and timber transportation, as well as providing a means for settlers to access the area. The county's economy diversified over time, with agriculture playing an increasingly important role alongside the timber industry.
Today, Aitkin County is a thriving community that embraces its natural beauty and history. Outdoor recreation, such as fishing, hunting, and hiking, is a popular activity in the area. The county's historical sites and museums, such as the Aitkin County Historical Society and the Aitkin Depot Museum, provide a glimpse into the area's past. Aitkin County continues to be a place where residents and visitors can appreciate the unique combination of natural resources and rich history that the region has to offer.
Aitkin County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Aitkin County, Minnesota.
- 1857: Aitkin County is established by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature.
- 1871: Aitkin becomes the county seat of Aitkin County.
- 1884: The Great Northern Railway reaches Aitkin, connecting the area to larger markets.
- 1902: The town of McGregor is incorporated in Aitkin County.
- 1903: The Soo Line Railroad reaches Aitkin, further improving transportation in the area.
- 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic hardship to Aitkin County.
- 1942: The Savanna Army Depot is established near McGregor during World War II.
- 1970s: Aitkin County experiences a period of economic growth and development.
- 1993: The Pillsbury State Forest is established in Aitkin County.
- 2016: The Mille Lacs Indian Reservation, located partially within Aitkin County, is officially recognized by the federal government.