Hubbell House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hubbell House |
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The Hubbell House in 2017
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| Restaurant information | |
| Established | 1854 |
| Previous owner(s) | John Hubbell, Paul Pappas |
| Street address | Mantorville Avenue |
| City | Mantorville |
| State | Minnesota |
| Country | USA |
The Hubbell House in Mantorville, Minnesota, is one of the oldest restaurants still open in the state of Minnesota. It is a special building within the Mantorville Historic District. This district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's recognized as an important historical site. The restaurant is located on Mantorville Avenue, also known as Minnesota State Highway 57, which runs through the town. The building was first built in 1854, but it was rebuilt just two years later in 1856.
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A Look Back: Hubbell House History
Early Days: A Rest Stop for Travelers
The very first building known as "The Hubbell House" was built in 1854. This was four years before Minnesota even became a state in 1858! It was built by a man named John Hubbell. The original building was a small, two-room log cabin.
It quickly became a popular rest stop. Mail carriers and people traveling by stagecoach used it. It was a perfect place to stop and rest on their long journeys from the East to the West.
Rebuilding and Growing Famous
In 1856, the building was rebuilt. This new Hubbell House was much bigger. It had three stories and was made from strong limestone. This stone came from a local quarry nearby.
After the new building was finished, it became even more well-known. It was a key stopping point for travelers. People journeying from the Mississippi River to Saint Peter would often stop there. At this time, The Hubbell House was known as a place for weary travelers to relax.
A New Beginning: From Saloon to Restaurant
In the 1930s, the Hubbell House was given to Paul Pappas. His father-in-law passed it on to him. Paul had a big idea for the old building. He wanted to give it a new life.
Paul Pappas changed the Hubbell House from a simple stopping place into a fine dining restaurant. He helped it become famous again. Paul passed away in 1996. However, his family still owns and runs the restaurant today. For almost 160 years, The Hubbell House has served delicious food. It also offers a unique atmosphere that feels like the Civil War era. Guests can look at many historical items while they enjoy their meals.
Famous Visitors at Hubbell House
Over the years, many well-known people have visited The Hubbell House. From its very early days until now, famous guests have stopped by for a meal. Here are some of the notable people who have visited:
- Senator Alexander Ramsey
- Ulysses S. Grant (who later became a U.S. President)
- Brother Bishop Whipple
- Horace Greeley (a famous newspaper editor)
- Ole Bull (a talented violinist)
- William Worrall Mayo (a doctor who helped start the Mayo Clinic)
- Dwight D. Eisenhower (a U.S. President)
- Mickey Mantle (a legendary baseball player)
- Members of the Minnesota Vikings (a professional football team)
- Iraqi President, Jalal Talabani
