By Rich Larson
The Northfield History Center has kicked off a major capital campaign to rehabilitate the historic Scriver Building, its longtime home and one of the most significant landmarks in downtown Northfield.
Built in 1868, the Scriver Building housed the First National Bank of Northfield at the time of the famous 1876 raid attempted by the James-Younger Gang. Today, the building remains a focal point for visitors during Defeat of Jesse James Days and year-round tourism. But after decades of wear, particularly on the upper level and exterior, the structure is in need of substantial restoration.
Executive Director Sean Allen said construction is already underway, beginning with the second floor, which had long been occupied by aging and partially unusable apartments. Crews have completed demolition and are now rebuilding the space into five historically inspired apartment units. The project recently received a $200,000 grant from the City of Northfield through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, requiring construction to be completed by the end of June.
Later this spring, work will extend to the Division Street exterior, where deteriorating brick, failing stucco, and water intrusion have caused long-standing concerns. The goal is to restore the façade to its 1876 appearance, removing later additions and stabilizing the structure for generations to come.
In addition to preserving history, the project is designed to strengthen the History Center’s financial sustainability. Rental income from the apartments will help support museum operations long into the future.
Longtime volunteer Earl Weinman, who is the 2026 recipient of the Joseph Lee Heywood Award for Distinguished Service, and has given tours at the History Center since the early 1990s, said the building has steadily grown in both size and community importance. He praised the current effort as another milestone in the History Center’s stewardship, particularly meaningful during the 150th anniversary of the bank raid and the 50th anniversary of the Northfield Historical Society.
“This is our heritage,” Weinman said. “We’re just the stewards of it right now.”
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
