Kiesling House

220 North Minnesota, New Ulm, MN 56073

info@browncountyhistorymn.org

Explore the past at the Kiesling House constructed in 1861; it survived the U.S. – Dakota War and is one of the few wood-framed houses remaining in Brown County from before the U.S. – Dakota War. Participate in a wide variety of experiences scheduled at different times throughout the season. Learn about early pioneer settlement, customs and traditions of area immigrants and events, like the U.S. – Dakota War that shaped New Ulm. Examine the development of community and influence of social and political issues on area residents. Observe reenactments of heritage trades, chores, activities, and attend special events. The Kiesling House is owned by the city of New Ulm and operated by the Brown County Historical Society. Visit www.browncountyhistorymn.org to plan your visit to the Kiesling House.

Historical Preservation

New Ulm was designated a “Preserve America City” by the President’s Advisory Council on Historic Preservation in 2006. Soon after, we received several grants to fund work on our historic downtown, including the creation of our 16 video podcasts, a new Walking Tour guide, new historic markers and a prototype of our first “Eyewitness to History,” Frederick Kiesling.

One of the most interesting pieces of our downtown history is the 1862 Dakota War, where two pitched battles ensued between early settlers and the Dakota Indians. Most buildings in the town were destroyed during this time; three original structures remain – the Forster Building, the Erd building (whose basement served as a hiding place for women and children) and the wooden home of Frederick Kiesling. The life-size figure you see in Kiesling Park is of Mr. Kiesling dressed in his Sunday best. Stop at the Visitor Center to get the Walking Tour brochures and more information.

Location: 220 North Minnesota 
Contact: 507-233-2616 / info@browncountyhistorymn.org 
Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day: Friday & Saturday 11am – 3pm / tours are available by appointment. 
Admission: $3 Adults, Children 4 and under free, BCHS members free