Blair Flats
a.k.a. Albion Hotel;Angus Hotel;See Also:Historic Hill District
165 Western Ave., St. Paul, MN Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
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.
In the 19th century, Ramsey County was established as one of Minnesota's original nine counties in 1849. The county derived its name from Alexander Ramsey, the first territorial governor of Minnesota. The area began to develop rapidly, with the construction of the state's first railroad in 1862, connecting St. Paul (the county seat) with the rest of Minnesota and pushing economic growth.
During the late 19th century, St. Paul became a major center for trade and transportation, with its location on the Mississippi River and proximity to railways. The city witnessed significant industrialization, attracting diverse industries such as milling, meatpacking, and brewing. The population of the county expanded rapidly, attracting immigrants from various European countries who sought employment opportunities.
In the 20th century, Ramsey County continued to grow and diversify. It played a critical role in World War II as the site of the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, which produced munitions for the war effort. The county also faced challenges, including racial tensions and urban decay in certain areas. Today, Ramsey County remains a vibrant urban area with a diverse population and a strong economy, characterized by its thriving arts and culture scene, high-quality education, and numerous recreational opportunities.
Ramsey County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Ramsey County, Minnesota.
- 1849 - Ramsey County is established in Minnesota Territory
- 1850 - St. Paul becomes the county seat
- 1857 - Land west of the Mississippi River is transferred to Hennepin County
- 1862 - Dakota tribes are forcibly removed from the county during the U.S.-Dakota War
- 1889 - Capitol building is completed in St. Paul
- 1900 - Population of Ramsey County exceeds 200,000
- 1938 - The Highland Park Water Tower is built
- 1974 - Landmark Center opens as a cultural center and events venue
- 1992 - Xcel Energy Center is constructed in downtown St. Paul
- 2010 - Population of Ramsey County reaches nearly 520,000