Furber, John P., House
7310 Lamar Ave., Cottage Grove, MN Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
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.
Minnesota is home to the largest ball of twine ever rolled by one person. Francis A. Johnson started rolling the ball in 1950 and continued to add to it until his death in 1989. The ball weighs over 17,000 pounds and has a circumference of 40 feet.
In 1849, Washington County was officially established as one of Minnesota's original nine counties. The county was named after the first President of the United States, George Washington. The area quickly attracted settlers with its fertile soil and proximity to the Mississippi River, which allowed for trade and transportation. The town of Stillwater, located on the St. Croix River, became the county seat and a hub for lumber and milling industries.
During the mid to late 19th century, Washington County experienced significant growth and development as the logging industry boomed. The forests were abundant with timber, and numerous sawmills were established along the rivers, fueling economic growth in the county. However, as the timber resources dwindled, the county transitioned to agriculture, with farming becoming a pivotal part of the local economy.
In the 20th century, Washington County underwent further transformations as industrialization took hold. The construction of railroads in the county allowed for increased trade and connected the area to larger cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul. The county's economic base expanded to include manufacturing and other industries.
Today, Washington County is a vibrant and diverse community that embraces its rich history while looking towards the future. It offers a blend of urban and rural areas, with a strong focus on preserving its natural beauty and providing quality of life for its residents. The county continues to grow and evolve, further cementing its place as a dynamic part of the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area.
Washington County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Washington County, Minnesota.
- 1838 - Washington County is established by the Minnesota Territory government.
- 1851 - The city of Stillwater is founded.
- 1853 - Washington County's population reaches 4,709.
- 1862 - The Dakota War of 1862 begins, leading to conflict and displacement in the area.
- 1870 - The St. Croix Boom Site, used for logging, is opened in Stillwater.
- 1897 - The Washington County Courthouse is constructed in Stillwater.
- 1920 - The population of Washington County reaches 27,472.
- 1951 - Interstate 94 is completed, connecting Washington County to the rest of the state.
- 1973 - A waterway management plan is established to protect the St. Croix River.
- 2000 - The population of Washington County surpasses 201,000.