2020-21 Visitor & Relocation Guide to Martin County

HISTORICAL PLACES
HERITAGE ACRES AGRICULTURAL INTERPRETIVE CENTER
TAKE A STEP BACK...
It was thanks to the rolling hills surrounding
our picturesque lake setting that Fairmont was
named. It was originally called Fair Mount. Since the
establishment of a fort here in 1826, Fairmont has been
steeped in an intriguing history.
For nearly 200 years, our community has weathered
Indian uprisings, Civil War unrest, 19th century
agricultural challenges, and the industrial development
of the early 1900s. But that rich tapestry of pioneering
settlers, battlefield conflicts, and innovative farming
methods, has seen Fairmont grow to become one of the
state’s leading rural communities.
Enjoy historical sites listed on the Minnesota National
Register, visit the ‘Lost Towns’ of Martin County, and
walk in the footsteps of Victorian era residents in our
historic downtown centers. Wherever you choose to
go, you’ll embark on a voyage of discovery spanning
centuries, cultures, and a bygone era.
FAIRMONT HISTORY TIMELINE
1826 Fort established as an army post and trade center.
1857 First permanent settlers, E. Banks Hall and William
H. Budd, arrive. Fairmont platted by the Des Moines
and Watonwan Land Company.
1858 First post office in Martin County dedicated
in Fairmont.
1862 Fort Fairmont established shortly after
Sioux Indian Uprising.
1873 Three year “Grasshopper Plague” hits area farms.
1878 Southern Minnesota Railroad completed in Fairmont.
1896 First switchboard and telephones installed.
1909 Fairmont Railway Motors established to make
small farm engines.
PHOTO CREDIT: HERITAGE ACRES INTERNATIONAL (TOP)
6 Visitor and Relocation Guide to Martin County | 2020-2021 www.fairmontchamber.org