Martin County Historical Society is proudly ranked as Minnesota’s number 1 county museum! Their mission is to preserve and share the history of Martin County by acquiring, conserving, appropriately displaying, and making it accessible for viewing, research, and educational purposes. The Martin County Historical Society is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday are open by appointment or for special tours. However, there is no charge for admission, but donations are accepted. An elevator has also been added to the museum to make the displays much more accessible.
The Historical Society came into existence on February 2, 1929, at the Martin County Courthouse. A new addition on the west side of the building was completed in 1995. This expanded the staff’s office space and created the main lobby area which has turned into another popular display area. In 2009 the historical society purchased the house next door, which used to be the Catholic Rectory. For more information, check out the Pioneer Parsonage.
Research can also be conducted in a state of the art research library that was completed in 2003. Some of the research materials available include microfilmed county newspapers and bound newspapers dating back to the 1870’s, obituary records, cemetery records, family histories, high school yearbooks, phone directories, and city directories. It is also a great spot to hold meetings. If your group would like a meeting location, whether it’s a noon luncheon or an evening meeting, contact the historical society to arrange a time.
For more information, check out their website!
Check out the city of Fairmont’s historical site map.
304 East Blue Earth Avenue
Fairmont, MN 56031
(507) 235-5178
Let the hospitality in Fairmont welcome you! Just off Interstate-90, you’ll find a wide selection of hotels and restaurants. Perhaps a more rustic stay at a cabin or camping near the lake is more your style – we’ve got you covered.
Check out the Fairmont Area Visitor’s Guide online for tips and insights to exploring our area. Or, we can mail one to you!