National Register Listing

Jones-Roberts Farmstead

a.k.a. Williams Farmstead

MN 68, Lake Crystal, MN
Local significance of the building:
European; Exploration/settlement; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
  A brief timeline of the history of the Republic of Texas
  • 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
  • 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
  • 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
  • 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
  • 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
  • 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
  • 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
  • 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
  • 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
Although the Republic of Texas was relatively short-lived, lasting from 1836 to 1845, it played a significant role in shaping the history of Texas and its eventual integration into the United States.

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.

ethnic heritage european exploration settlementT architecture county official Texas Revolution Republic of Texas state official pioneers
The iconic animated characters of Rocky and Bullwinkle were created by Minnesota native Jay Ward in the 1950s.
Minnesota random facts
Blue Earth County, located in southern Minnesota, has a fascinating history that spans centuries. The area was originally home to the Dakota Sioux Native American tribes, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, and the county was officially established in 1853.

One significant event in Blue Earth County's history was the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Tensions between the Dakota people and settlers led to a conflict, resulting in the execution of 38 Dakota men in Mankato, the county seat. This remains the largest mass execution in U.S. history. The aftermath of the war brought about significant changes in the region, including the forced removal of the Dakota people from the area.

During the late 19th century, Blue Earth County experienced rapid growth and development. The introduction of the railroad in the 1860s allowed for increased transportation and economic opportunities. Agriculture became a prominent industry, with crops such as corn, wheat, and oats thriving in the fertile land. Numerous small towns and villages grew, contributing to the county's growth and prosperity.

In the 20th century, Blue Earth County continued to thrive and adapt to changing times. Advances in technology and transportation further bolstered its economy. The county is home to Minnesota State University, which was established in Mankato in 1868 and has been a major influence on the region. Today, Blue Earth County is a vibrant and diverse community, known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and strong sense of community.

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

  • 1853: Blue Earth County is established as one of the original nine counties in Minnesota.
  • 1862: The Sioux Uprising, also known as the Dakota War of 1862, impacts the area and leads to conflict between settlers and Native Americans.
  • 1868: The city of Mankato is incorporated, becoming the county seat of Blue Earth County.
  • 1871: The first railroad reaches Mankato, greatly improving transportation and connecting the county to the rest of the region.
  • 1888: Blue Earth County Courthouse, now known as the Historic Courthouse, is constructed in Mankato.
  • 1948: The Gage Towers, a prominent landmark in Mankato, are built as the tallest buildings in southern Minnesota.
  • 1965: The Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is established in Nicollet, providing a faith-based education to students.
  • 1996: The Blue Earth County Historical Society is formed to preserve and educate about the county's history.
  • 2010: The Blue Earth County Library undergoes renovations, modernizing the facility and expanding its resources.
  • 2018: The Greater Mankato Diversity Council is established to promote inclusivity and cultural understanding in the community.