Explore St. James, Minnesota: A Small Town Packed with Rich History and Cultural Treasures!
Uncover St. James, Minnesota—a small town packed with rich history, architectural wonders, and inspiring community stories. 🌐 #News #StJamesMN #Minnesota #Travel
ST. JAMES, MN – Nestled in southern Minnesota, St. James is a treasure trove of history, culture, and community spirit. With roots stretching deep into Minnesota’s past, this small town—just 38 miles from Mankato—is packed with stories waiting to be discovered. Its streets, buildings, and annual events reveal an inspiring tale of resilience and diversity. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a railroad buff, or someone looking for a taste of small-town charm, St. James offers a captivating journey through time. Let’s explore the highlights that make this town such a fascinating place to visit.
A Community with Heart
St. James is the Watonwan County seat, boasting a population of around 5,000 residents. It has become a culturally rich hub, with over 37% of its population identifying as Hispanic or Latinx. The town thrives on community involvement, with residents frequently coming together for projects, fundraisers, and charity events.
Locals are known for their generosity, organizing scholarship programs for graduating seniors and weekend events that support various causes. From benefit luncheons to chicken or steak fry fundraisers, there is always something happening to foster a sense of unity.
Known as a “micro” regional center, St. James is the largest community within a 40-mile radius, providing essential services, retail shops, and recreational opportunities. The town’s annual Multicultural Fiesta celebrates its diversity, showcasing food, music, and traditions from different backgrounds.
St. James is also gaining national attention for its inclusive housing initiatives, which are helping recent immigrants build new lives and find stability.
Historical Museums and Rail Attractions
Model Rail Club and Historical Railroad Museum
Train enthusiasts will find paradise at St. James’ Model Rail Club and Historical Railroad Museum. During the town’s Railroad Days or by appointment, visitors can explore intricate model trains that weave through miniature towns and landscapes. Children will be thrilled by interactive displays where they can bring tiny villages to life with the push of a button.
Nearby, the Historical Railroad Museum offers a peek into railroading’s golden age with its preserved depot building, caboose, signal tower, and sand tower. Even if you can’t book a tour, the location makes for excellent photo opportunities.
Watonwan County Historical Society Museum
Step back in time at the local Historical Society Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits and collections from the area’s past. The museum is open on Wednesdays from April through October and provides visitors with a glimpse into the artifacts and memorabilia that shaped the town.
Historic Buildings Downtown
Grand Opera House
The Grand Opera House, an iconic landmark on Main Street, played a major role in bringing entertainment to the community. From 1892 to 1921, this venue hosted theatrical performances, music, and comedy shows, making it a key gathering spot for local events. Today, it stands as a testament to St. James’ rich cultural legacy and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Watonwan County Courthouse
Completed in 1896, the Watonwan County Courthouse is a masterpiece of Romanesque Revival architecture. As the center of local government, it has been in continuous use for over a century. Its impressive design and status as a Victorian-era courthouse have earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places. This building is a symbol of the region’s agricultural and political heritage.
Princess Theater
Originally built between 1913 and 1915, the Princess Theater was once the town’s go-to spot for silent films. After being purchased by the city in 1973, it underwent renovations and became a community center. The theater reopened in 1983, featuring restored balcony seating and new digital equipment funded by a local “Save the Princess” committee. Today, the marquee shines brightly with neon lights, and recent updates include a handicap-accessible ramp and restored lobby.
Notable Figures of St. James
Evelyn J. Wenstrom
Evelyn J. Wenstrom, born in 1901, was an aviation pioneer and the first female pilot in Idaho. Her daring achievements caught the attention of Amelia Earhart, who sought her help in organizing a women’s pilot organization during the 1930s.
Winfield Scott Hammond
Winfield Scott Hammond served as the governor of Minnesota in 1915 while living in St. James. His career also included roles as county attorney, school principal, and state congressman, demonstrating his dedication to public service.
Moses Kimball Armstrong
A visionary leader, Moses Kimball Armstrong helped shape St. James by bringing the railroad to town and establishing vital infrastructure like schools and churches. His efforts attracted investment and development, laying the groundwork for the town’s growth.
Alfred Robert Voss
A.R. Voss made significant contributions to agriculture in Watonwan County, convincing over 150 farmers to settle in the area. His efforts didn’t stop there—he also donated land for community development and played a key role in founding the town’s first hospital.
Experience the Legacy of St. James
With its blend of historical landmarks, cultural festivals, and community pride, St. James is much more than a small town—it’s a living chapter of Minnesota’s history. Whether you’re exploring its museums or walking through its historic downtown, every corner of St. James offers a story worth discovering.
RELATED TOPICS: Lifestyle | Minnesota | Travel
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