By: Melissa Stinson & Stefanie Schmid

The roots of “old main” 1870 “Mankato Normal School” Third normal school in Minnesota 1868 classes were held in normal buildings until construction was complete Entrance to the school was an exam Too many people failed Free education if they taught in Minnesota

The Annex Old main was over-crowded 1909 Three floor Annex for lab school 1921 changed name to Mankato State Teachers College Feb. 5 th 1922 Teachers College burned 1957 moved to upper campus

The Present Building Replaced the original Romanesque school of 1874 Donated on April 8, 1924 by President Cooper 1974 President Dr. Moore wanted to merge upper and lower campuses 1979 Old Main was closed!

Years of Vacancy Poor condition 1980’s Annex burned and became the parking lot Considered for demolition March 10, 1983 nominated for national register for historic places 1984 was added to register

Old Main Village Renovation began in 1987 Old Main opened in June 1988 Contained 85 apartments for assisted living

Special Features Swimming pool Salon Field trips and activities Residence advisory council Security Health provisions Library OMV office

Food Services Heritage dining room (originally library) Private dining room which seats 15 Club room Delivered meals and grocery delivery Schwan’s

Summary Originated as Mankato Normal School Renamed to Mankato State Teachers College Became lower campus of MSU Vacant for several years Presently Old Main Village