History Stories

Our region has a rich history. Some of it’s fascinating and inspiring, some of it not so much. Here you’ll find Greater Mankato Area history stories so you can judge for yourself.

Photo by Rick Pepper - November 1, 2003 Aerial photo looking from the south at the Victory Drive area.

Mankato Memories – North Victory Drive Bridge Photo Album

Rick Pepper finishes his series on the North Victory Drive renovation with a series of photos of the Thompson Ravine Bridge
Photo by Don Lipps - Recycled tires at Key City Bike - Mankato, MN

The Rise, Fall, and Renaissance of Key City

Gary Pettis walks us through the history of the long-used Mankato slogan, Key City
Photo courtesy of the City of Mankato - Mankato, MN - Ivy Lane satellite image prior to 2000. The top of the image is due north and the future Victory Drive bridge will be at the bottom center of this image. Today's remnant of Thompson Ravine Road is on the left.

Mankato Memories — Ivy Lane Development Photo Album

Rick Pepper leads us on a photo tour of the relocation of Mankato's Ivy Lane neighborhood in 2000.
Photo by Gary Pettis - Mankato's Liberty Bell was cast by G.W. Coffin & Company of Ohio.

Mankato ‘Liberty’ Bell Rings Again 100 Years After the End of World War I

On November 11, 1918 Mankato's "Liberty Bell" was rung to commemorate the end of World War I. That same bell will be rung again on November 11, 2018.
Photo by Don Lipps - Sibley Park - Mankato, MN

A prodigal son returns to Mankato… and has some thoughts

North Mankato native, Jeff Thomas, talks about visiting home, reminding us that while progress marches on, some things never change!
History Fest - Mankato, MN

History Fest 2018 — Playfully Preserving History

History Fest, located south of Mankato at the McGowan Farm offers kids of all ages the chance to experience history hands-on.
Photo by Rick Pepper - May 31, 2008 Looking south onto Victory Drive from Madison East parking lot

Mankato Memories – Ten Years Later – Victory Drive Renovation Photo Album

Rick Pepper takes us back in time to remember the 2008 Victory Drive modifications in Mankato