Hastings, MN, may not be a big city, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t much to do when visiting. With several historic sites and natural attractions, Hastings draws many tourists each and every year, and one of the most popular destinations is the historic LaDuc Estate. Steeped in history, the LeDuc Estate is a monument to a Civil War veteran that now serves as a museum dedicated to the people involved with building this architectural beauty.

The History of the Historic LeDuc Estate

William G. LeDuc was a quartermaster in the Civil War who earned the title as brigadier general due to his exemplary service record during those difficult times.

But in 1850 William came to St. Paul, Minnesota Territory from Ohio to open a book store and law office. In 1851 he went back to Ohio to marry his fiance, Mary Elizabeth Bronson. In 1854 he purchased a quarter share in the town of Hastings from Alexander Faribault. In 1856, he and his wife Mary, with their two daughters moved downriver to Hastings, where they had also acquired two wheat farms and 160 acres with a small grist mill on the falls of the Vermillion River.

It was on this property that William and Mary decided to build their dream home. The house was built while William was serving in the Civil War and Mary and their three children were living in Mount Vernon, Ohio with her mother.

At the end of the war the family moved into their unfinished house. It was finally complete in 1866. Tour the LeDuc house when you visit Hastings to get the rest of the story!

In addition to its historical significance in regards to the Civil War veteran it houses, this estate is also highly sought after because it was designed by the famed Andrew Jackson Downing, an architect famous for his work across the northeast U.S. Years after LeDuc’s death, the estate briefly served as an antiques shop before it was eventually turned over to the historical society and turned into a museum.

What to Do at This Historic Site

Now a staple for the local tourism bureau, the LeDuc Estate provides a variety of family-friendly activities that make it the perfect destination for visiting tourists. From May through October, tours are provided that offer amazing insights into the lives and histories of those who built the estate, serving as one of the most unaltered examples of Downing’s famous design styles.

The grounds can also be rented out for private events, and they offer a newly renovated catering kitchen available to licensed caterers to truly make your event your own. Finally, the LeDuc Estate is open to a variety of community events that allow visitors to see all the splendor of the property while learning insightful information.

The LeDuc Estate is one of many historical sites Hastings, MN, has to offer, and the best way to experience the very best of the city is by taking advantage of all Visit Hastings MN in Dakota and Washington Counties, MN. This nonprofit organization will provide you with all the information and ideas you need to make your visit to this lovely city one you will never forget. For questions, call (651) 437-7740 or learn more online.