Ever wondered what it was like to arrive here by steamboat? St. Lawrence Township whispers tales of a time when the Minnesota River was the superhighway.
Welcome to St. Lawrence Township in Scott County Minnesota. This township, established in 1858, holds a unique place in Minnesota’s history. It was once envisioned as a bustling river port.
Imagine the 1850s. European Americans are resettling the region. They recognize the importance of the river for transportation and trade. The founders of St. Lawrence Township wanted to capitalize on this river traffic. They also hoped to connect to the stagecoach lines.
Four businessmen, Samuel Burton Strait, W.H. Stodder, C.L. Pierson, and Warren DeCamp, founded the village of St. Lawrence. They invested in a sawmill, a blacksmith shop, a general store, six homes, and a grand hotel.
The hotel was designed to impress river travelers. Its limestone walls were three feet thick. Polished walnut floors and an elaborate maple banister adorned the interior. The Belle Plaine Herald humorously described the banister in 1925. It suggested that the banister held secrets of stolen kisses and marriage pacts.
The first school opened its doors in 1858. Mary Evermann taught in a log cabin. W.H. Stodder became the postmaster. The town thrived. By 1860, St. Lawrence had a population of 216 residents.
One notable resident was Fredrick Erikson. He was a Swedish immigrant who invested in the railroad industry. Erikson bought 1100 acres in St. Lawrence Township. He built a four-story house. He also built a two-story “manouse” for 30 farmworkers. The farm was called Oak Farm. Clara Frank recalled visiting the upper floor and marveling at the view. She remembered the sound of a giant bell calling workers to dinner.
Samuel Strait, one of the original founders, also built a home here. It featured thick limestone walls, large windows, and a shaded front porch. Strait was a prominent figure. He later moved to Shakopee and started the Strait Flour Mill.
His son, Horace Strait, served in the Civil War. He rose to the rank of Inspector General. Later, he served in Congress.
Today, St. Lawrence Township maintains its small-town charm. The township covers 14.9 square miles. It has a population of approximately 515 residents. It is also home to Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store and Jim’s Apple Farm. The Scott County Fairgrounds host fairs since 1973.
As you explore St. Lawrence Township, remember its rich past. From its early aspirations as a river port to its present-day community. This place continues to evolve. The story of St. Lawrence Township is still being written.