National Register of Historic Places listings in Swift County, Minnesota facts for kids
Have you ever wondered about the oldest and most important buildings in your area? In Swift County, Minnesota, there are nine special places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list kept by the United States government to recognize buildings, sites, or objects that are important in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture.
When a place is on this list, it means it's worth protecting and learning about. These places tell us stories about the past and how people lived. Let's explore some of these amazing historic spots in Swift County!
Historic Buildings in Swift County
Appleton City Hall
The Appleton City Hall is a beautiful building in Appleton, Minnesota. It was built in 1895. This city hall is made of brick and shows off a style called Romanesque Revival. This style often uses round arches and strong, heavy stone or brickwork, making buildings look grand and solid.
Churches with History
Swift County is home to several historic churches, each with its own unique story and architectural style.
Christ Church-Episcopal
In Benson, Minnesota, you'll find the Christ Church-Episcopal. This church was built in 1879. It features the Gothic Revival style, which often includes pointed arches, tall windows, and decorative details. Today, this historic building serves as a senior center, helping the community in a new way.
Church of St. Bridget-Catholic
The Church of St. Bridget-Catholic is located in De Graff, Minnesota. It was built in 1901. This church is made of brick and stone and also uses the Gothic Revival style. Its design makes it a striking landmark in the town.
Church of St. Francis Xavier-Catholic
Another important church in Benson, Minnesota is the Church of St. Francis Xavier-Catholic. This large church was built in 1917. It was designed by a famous architect named Emmanuel Louis Masqueray. He designed many beautiful churches and cathedrals.
Gethsemane Episcopal Church
Back in Appleton, Minnesota, the Gethsemane Episcopal Church was built in 1879. This church is special because it shows how the Episcopal Church spread westward in southern Minnesota. It was part of the efforts led by Bishop Henry Benjamin Whipple.
Monson Lake State Park's Historic Structures
Monson Lake State Park is more than just a park; it's also a historic site. The park has buildings from the 1930s that were built by groups like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). These groups helped people find jobs during the Great Depression. The buildings are in a style called National Park Service rustic, which means they blend in with nature using local materials like wood and stone.
Sabin S. Murdock House
In the town of Murdock, Minnesota, stands the Sabin S. Murdock House. This house was built in 1878. It belonged to Sabin S. Murdock, who was the founder of the town. The house is built in the Italianate style, which often features low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, and tall, narrow windows.
Swift County Courthouse
The Swift County Courthouse is an impressive building in Benson, Minnesota. It was built in 1898. This courthouse is made of brick and stone and was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. This style is known for its strong, castle-like appearance with rough stone and deep-set windows. The building was designed by architects Buechner & Jacobson.
Christian F. Uytendale Farmstead
Near Benson, Minnesota, you can find the Christian F. Uytendale Farmstead. This farm was started way back in 1868. It became very important between 1879 and 1902 when a wealthy Danish immigrant named Christian F. Uytendale lived there. His farmhouse, built in 1887, is special because it has unique design features from his Danish heritage.
Images for kids
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Appleton City Hall, built in 1895.
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Christ Church-Episcopal in Benson, built in 1879.
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Church of St. Bridget-Catholic in De Graff, built in 1901.
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Church of St. Francis Xavier-Catholic in Benson, built in 1917.
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Gethsemane Episcopal Church in Appleton, built in 1879.
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A picnic shelter at Monson Lake State Park, built by the CCC or WPA.
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The Sabin S. Murdock House in Murdock, built in 1878.
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The Swift County Courthouse in Benson, built in 1898.
