In 1884 the Redwood County Commissioners purchased 160 acres and a 9-room house for $3,000 from J.M. Little for use as a county poor farm because every county was required by state mandate to have one. Previous to that time persons unable to care for themselves were boarded out as paupers.
In January 1899, the farm was sold and Redwood County was without a poor farm until June 22, 1907, when 55 acres on the west edge of Redwood Falls were purchased from A. Alexander for $3,000.
In 1908 a Spanish-style 2-story building was built by Weilandt & Stevenson for $16,450. It was known as the most beautiful poor farm in the state! In 1950 it became known as the Redwood County Nursing Home and finally the Redwood County Museum in 1978.
One-room schoolhouse built in 1881, located behind the museum.
The Museum features many exhibits in this 2-story building, including early 1900’s parlor and bedroom scenes, military room, doctor’s office, pioneer tools, natural history rooms, Native American room, and more. A one-room schoolhouse and the old county jail are located behind the museum. Exhibit Hall features new displays every season.
It’s hard to imagine that this building is already more than 115 years old and one of the last poor farms remaining in the state!
We also have a small gift shop featuring local history books and novelty items.
Come take a tour and see for yourself! Click here for directions to the Redwood County Museum!
Old Jailhouse from Redwood Falls!
Open Memorial Day to Labor Day
Wednesday thru Sunday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Open Holidays and By Appointment Only
For Guided Tours & Appointments Call: 507-641-3329
Open Memorial Day
Open 4th of July
Open Labor Day (Last Day of Season)
When closed please call Scott Larson 507-430-5781 or Rick Morris 507-430-2146 or Chad Kamolz 507-430-1172. For Gilfillan tours and camping and pavilion or other events call Lindsey at 507-430-2686
Children 5 and Under FREE
