ROCHESTER, Minn. — Renovations at the historic Stoppel Farmstead in Rochester are moving into a new phase as the site prepares for its centennial celebration in 2026.

The restoration work began in 2022 with a focus on the backhouse and smokehouse, funded by a grant from the Minnesota Historical Society. Now, the Olmsted County History Center is concentrating on the 1860s stone house and transforming the barn's interior into an interactive exhibit space.

Valerie Wassmer, the Executive Director and Education Director of the History Center, emphasized the importance of making history accessible. "It's hands-on, tangible stuff. It's not reading things on a wall," Wassmer said. The center aims to provide experiential learning opportunities for both children and adults.

Phase one of the new m

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