Batchelder's Block facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Batchelder's Block
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Batchelder's Block from the east
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 Location in Minnesota
Location in the United States
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| Location | 120 Central Avenue N, Faribault, Minnesota |
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| Area | Less than one acre |
| Built | 1868 |
| Built by | Rice and Daniels |
| Architect | Charles N. Daniels |
| Architectural style | Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 90001089 |
| Added to NRHP | July 12, 1990 |
Batchelder's Block is a very old and important building in Faribault, Minnesota. It was built in 1868 and is one of the oldest business buildings still standing there.
This building is special because it shows how Faribault grew as a town. It also shows off a cool old building style. In 1990, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as an important historical spot.
Contents
What is Batchelder's Block?
Batchelder's Block is a tall, narrow building. It is about 28 feet (8.5 meters) wide. It stretches about 80 feet (24 meters) long.
The building has three stories. It was made from limestone found right in the local area.
Building Style and Design
A talented local architect named Charles N. Daniels designed it. He used a style called Italianate. This style often includes tall windows and decorative details.
Batchelder's Block is very well-preserved. It still looks much like it did when it was first built. This makes it a great example of old Faribault buildings.
It was also the first three-story building in Faribault. Plus, it was the first to have a special elevator. This elevator worked using a pulley system.
History of the Building
A businessman named George F. Batchelder had this building constructed in 1868. He wanted a place for his growing businesses.
Businesses Inside
On the first floor, George Batchelder ran a shop. He sold "dry goods" there. This meant things like fabrics, clothing, and other household items.
The second floor was used for a carpet shop. People could buy rugs and carpets for their homes.
Office Spaces and Unions
The third floor was rented out as office space. For many years, a group called the Congress of Industrial Organizations used these offices.
This group was a type of labor union. They worked to help people who had jobs in factories and other industries. It was the first labor union active in Faribault.
