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Historical Sites
Martin County Courthouse
Open to the public
(507) 238-3126
Construction started in April 1906, with the dedication held on December 16, 1907. The first story is built of Marquette rain-drop sandstone from Michigan. Second and third stores are built of Buff-Bedford limestone from Indiana. The building is classical in architecture. It is fireproof throughout. The dome extends 58 feet above the roof, making it 108 feet from the ground. The courthouse is located on the site of old Fort Fairmount, built in 1862 at the time of the Sioux Uprising.
Listed in the National Registry of Historic Sites.
Martin County Historical Society
Location: 304 E. Blue Earth Avenue, Fairmont
Open to the public
(507) 235-5178
Twelve rooms display a large collection of Indian relices, a pioneer home, a country school, military room and even a 1923 La France fire truck among other memorabilia from this area.
George Wohlheter Mansion
Location: 320 Woodland Avenue, Fairmont
Private
The mansion was built in 1899 for $35,000 and is Victorian style with four Corinthian columns and carved oak. Rose mahogany paneling and woodwork, Italian marble and colored cut glass windows are found throughout the mansion. There are six fireplaces and a third floor ballroom.
Fairmont Opera House
Location: 45 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont
Open to the public
(507) 238-4900
The Fairmont Opera House is a unique building which has enriched the architechtural, cultural and commercial life of the region for over 100 years. The Opera House was built in 1901 for the use, benefit, pleasure and entertainment of all people. In the late 1970's, the doors were chained and the build was days from being demolished. An organiation of local citizens saved this beautify piece of history and began restoration in 1980. Today, the full restored Opera House is producing memories for those attending the various performances and theatrical events The atmosphere, ghosts and memories of great actors, great entertainers and great show are all at the Fairmont Opera House.
Contact the Opera House for information on upcoming performances and tour information.
Listed in the National Registry of Historic Sites.
Livingston Log Cabin
Location: Lincoln Park, 1300 North North Avenue, Fairmont
Built by William Robert Livingston who came, with his wife, to Martin County in 1866. They settled in Silver Lake Township and named their homestead "Tall Oak". In 1953, the cabin was moved to Lincoln Park.
Heritage Acres:Agriculture Interpretive Center
Location: 827 Lake Avenue, Fairmont
(507) 235-5191
Discover the rich agricultural history of Martin County and the Midwest. The center has a variety of farm buildings, farm equipment, an old country school, a country church and more. Enjoy taking a stroll though yesterday on "Old Main Street". Heritage Acres is host to numerous public and private events throughout the year. Call for event and tour information.
Singing Oak Indian
Legend.
Marker at Sylvania Park, located on Lake Avenue.
Marker at Sylvania Park, located on Lake Avenue.
Chubb House
Location: 209 Lake Avenue
(507) 235-9777
In 1866, Dr. Orville Chubb came to Martin County and built his home, the oldest house in Fairmont.
It is of Greek Revival architecture built of bricks made from the banks of Buffalo Lake.
Sylvania Park Bandshell
Location: 209 Lake Avenue
Located in Sylvania Park on the eastern shore of Lake Sisseton, the Band Shell is a musical structure that has added to Fairmont's arts and entertainment for over 75 years. In September of 1925, the City of Fairmont purchased the plan for the band shell from George Pass and Sons of Mankato for $150.00. The construction contact was given to Andrew Christensen Lumber and Millworks in April 1926. Although not entirely complete, the first concert of the season was performed in the new band shell on June 10, 1926. The Fairmont City Band Shell is home to many events throughout the year, including a weekly summer City Band concern series, a July 4th music concert and an annual Salvation Army lip sync fundraiser.
Location: 209 Lake Avenue
Located in Sylvania Park on the eastern shore of Lake Sisseton, the Band Shell is a musical structure that has added to Fairmont's arts and entertainment for over 75 years. In September of 1925, the City of Fairmont purchased the plan for the band shell from George Pass and Sons of Mankato for $150.00. The construction contact was given to Andrew Christensen Lumber and Millworks in April 1926. Although not entirely complete, the first concert of the season was performed in the new band shell on June 10, 1926. The Fairmont City Band Shell is home to many events throughout the year, including a weekly summer City Band concern series, a July 4th music concert and an annual Salvation Army lip sync fundraiser.
Red Rock Center for the Arts
Location: 222 E. Blue Earth Avenue, Fairmont
(507) 235-9262
The Red Rock Center for the Arts was originally the First Church of Christ Scientist, which was formally organized in Fairmont on October 1, 1891. Finished in 1898, the building was designed by prominent Minnesota architect Harry W. Jones and is an excellent example of the Richardson Ian Romanesque style of architecture. The buidling was constructed of massive Sioux quartzite (red rock) blocks which were quarried in southwest Minnesota. The red stone was combined with constrasting buff colored limestone for a polychromatic effect. The main level of the building features 19 restored stain glass windows. The cornerstone came from Concord, New Hampshire and contains many artifacts of Christian Science teachings and the local church history. The Red Rock Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been recognized by the Minnesota Preservation Alliance. The Red Rock Center for the Arts sponsors many art exhibits, musical events and educational opportunities throughout the year. The facilities are also available for private rentals.