Click here to play a video of historic photos and music from Martin County.
Martin County, Minnesota (1857 - 2007)
The Sesquicentennial Celebration of Martin County is happening this year. It's hard to believe that a mere 150 years ago, the sidewalks and streets we walk each day were covered by nothing but trees and prairie grass.
While we will be having various Sesquicentennial themed events throughout the year, the majority of our festivities will be occurring on June 8th, 9th, and 10th of 2007. It will be an exciting year for Martin County, but we still need your help. If you have ideas of things you'd like to see happen during the celebration or would be willing to volunteer your time, contact us immediately. Help us celebrate this once in a lifetime event by attending an organizational meeting or by contacting a committee member.
This page will be frequently updated with all the news and events related to the 150th Anniversary of Martin County. Check back soon for more photos, stories, and updated event schedules. One new addition is the historic video to the left. This video was created by Nick Larsen, and features music from Warren Nelson's CD, A Martin County Hornpipe. If you enjoyed the video, and this is something you'd like to see more of, contact a committee member today, and let them know what you think.
If you are planning a community event for 2007, contact us to find out how it can be incorporated into the Sesquicentennial theme. We are looking for groups to have food booths, arts & crafts, and games in the park on Saturday and Sunday. This is open to non-profit groups as well as for profit businesses.
You can help us raise money for the celebration by checking out some of the fundraising items we have for sale. We have buttons, pewter ornaments, clothing, and much more, all of which make great presents for a proud Martin County citizen. Last, but not least, local quilt makers have been working voraciously in order to finish a one-of-a-kind historic quilt which will be raffled off during the summer's festivities. For pictures and more information, check out everything we currently have to offer here.
In honor of the many full-bearded folk who have helped to shape Martin County, we are holding a Beard Contest. It is never too early to start growing a beard or moustache for the celebration. Cash prizes will be awarded based on various categories, including: Longest, Best Groomed, Best Moustache, Fullest, and Best Color.
2007 is not only a special year for the county as a whole, but also for the historic Martin County Courthouse. Built in 1907, The Martin County Courthouse is in the midst of its centennial celebration. You can learn more about the courthouse here, or visit their website.