Step back in time and immerse yourself in the elegance and history of the Rensselaer D. Hubbard House, a stunning example of French Second Empire architecture nestled in the heart of Mankato, Minnesota. This historic gem, now a museum, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the late 19th and early 20th centuries while showcasing the innovations that made it a pioneer in modern conveniences.
The Hubbard House was built in 1871 for Rensselaer D. Hubbard, a successful businessman whose ventures in various industries left an indelible mark on Mankato's economic landscape. Born in Oswego County, New York, in 1837, Hubbard's journey to prosperity was anything but straightforward. From working on a survey crew for the Albany and Susquehanna Railroad to trying his luck at gold mining in California and Canada, Hubbard's tenacity eventually led him to Mankato, where he established the Mankato Linseed Oil Company and the Mankato Milling Company.
The house, designed by Silas Barnard, is a testament to Hubbard's success and vision. It was the first private residence in Mankato to feature indoor plumbing, electricity, and a telephone, making it a beacon of modernity in its time. The Hubbard House was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 7, 1976, ensuring its preservation for future generations to admire.
The Hubbard House is a masterpiece of French Second Empire architecture, characterized by its distinctive mansard roof adorned with colorful slate tiles. The two-and-a-half-story structure stands proudly on a basement of cut stone, with brick and wood construction accented by Mankato stone trim details. The front porch, supported by elegant Ionic columns, invites visitors to step inside and explore the grandeur within.
The house was built in two sections: the original section from 1871 and an 1888 addition in the Italianate style. This harmonious blend of architectural styles creates a visually striking and historically significant structure that has stood the test of time. The interior is equally impressive, featuring a grand oak staircase, three fireplaces with marble and onyx detailing, and luxurious wall coverings that reflect the Hubbard family's refined taste.
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Rensselaer D. Hubbard's life story is one of ambition and resilience. From his early days as a grocery clerk in New York to his successful business ventures in Mankato, Hubbard's entrepreneurial spirit was matched by his commitment to his family and community. After the death of his first wife, Mary Esther Cook, Hubbard remarried Miss Frank Griffith, with whom he had two daughters. The Hubbard family lived in the house until 1938, when the youngest daughter, Mary Ester Hubbard, sold the property to the Blue Earth County Historical Society.
The society used the house as its main museum from 1938 to 1988, housing exhibit galleries, artifact storage, offices, and a research center. In 1977, a two-story brick Queen Anne Style carriage house was moved to the site, adding to the property's historical charm. The house was meticulously restored to its 1905 state, with the final phase of the restoration completed in May 2009, thanks to funding from the Minnesota Historical Society, the City of Mankato, private donors, and fundraising efforts.
Visitors to the Hubbard House can explore 14 of the original 16 rooms, each meticulously restored to reflect the period's elegance and innovation. Approximately a quarter of the furnishings are original to the Hubbard family, while the remaining antiques have been donated by generous patrons. The house's design emphasizes both beauty and utility, with features like a central heating system, multiple bathrooms, and dual gas and electric lighting that were revolutionary for their time.
Highlights of the interior include the library with its cotton wall coverings, the parlor adorned with silk damask imported from Paris, and the dining room illuminated by a stunning Tiffany chandelier. Each room offers a unique glimpse into the Hubbard family's daily life and the opulent lifestyle of the era.
The period gardens surrounding the Hubbard House are maintained by the dedicated volunteers of the Twilight Garden Club, providing a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The carriage house, which houses a display of horse-drawn vehicles, antique automobiles, and a 1916 fire engine, adds another layer of historical intrigue to the property.
The Rensselaer D. Hubbard House is more than just a museum; it is a window into a bygone era, offering visitors a chance to experience the elegance, innovation, and history of late 19th and early 20th century Mankato. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, the Hubbard House is a must-visit destination that promises to captivate and inspire.
Step inside the Hubbard House and let its storied walls and exquisite details transport you to a time of grandeur and innovation, where the legacy of Rensselaer D. Hubbard and his family lives on, inviting you to explore and appreciate the rich history of Mankato.
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