Hastings City Hall facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hastings City Hall |
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Dakota County Courthouse
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Hastings City Hall from the southeast
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| Location | 101 4th Street East, Hastings, Minnesota |
| Built | 1869–71 |
| Architect | A.M. Radcliff |
| Architectural style | Italian Villa, Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 78003069 |
| Added to NRHP | July 21, 1978 |
Hastings City Hall is a very old and important government building in Hastings, Minnesota. It was finished in 1871. This building used to be called the Dakota County Courthouse. It was the main place where the government of Dakota County worked. Today, it serves as the city hall for Hastings.
The building was designed by A.M. Radcliff, who was one of the first architects in Minnesota. He designed it in a special style called Italian Villa. Even though a new part was added in 1955 that looked very different, the building is still a key landmark in downtown Hastings.
A Look Back: Its History
The building started as the Dakota County Courthouse. It was the center of county government from 1871. For over 100 years, important decisions were made here. County leaders met in this building.
In September 1974, the county commissioners held their last meeting there. The county government moved to a new location. After that, the building was empty for a while. Then, in 1993, it became the Hastings City Hall.
Building Style: Italian Villa
The Hastings City Hall is built in the Italian Villa style. This style was popular in the 1800s. It often includes tall towers and wide eaves. These are the parts of the roof that hang over the walls.
The original design by A.M. Radcliff showed this style. However, a new section was added in 1955. This new part looked very different from the original building. It changed how the building looked overall.
What Happens Inside?
As a courthouse, this building was where legal matters were handled. Judges heard cases, and important county records were kept. It was a place for justice and local government.
Now, as Hastings City Hall, it's where the city's government works. The mayor and city council meet here. They make decisions about the city's services. These include things like parks, roads, and public safety. It's where citizens can go for city services.
