History
The Blue Earth County Historical Society dates back to 1901. As the Semi-centennial of Mankato and Blue Earth County was approaching, a group decided to organize a historical society as part of the event. A constitution was written and plans made to commemorate fifty years of settlement. In 1938, the R. D. Hubbard House was purchased by BECHS with money donated by Judge Lorin Cray for the purpose of buying or building a permanent museum. During the 1980's, the Society was continually looking at options for a better facility for the storage and display of its collections. When the Summit Senior Center began looking for a partner to share the former Catholic Newman Center building, BECHS was ready to talk. The two non-profit organizations became partners in the late 1980s and BECHS took over most of the second floor. Major fund raising provided money to remodel the floor into an exhibit gallery, research center and offices. The newly named Heritage Center opened in 1990.
Specialties
The Blue Earth County Historical Society is a member supported nonprofit organization that operates two locations. The Heritage Center houses the Museum, Gift Shop, Research Center, business offices and archives. The R.D. Hubbard House is open seasonally May through September.