Sibley House Historic Site

The tiny community of Mendota is nestled in a picturesque setting where the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers meet. Here in one of the state's oldest settlements stand four simple limestone buildings from the era when the American Fur Company operated a regional trade with the Dakota, between 1825 and 1853. The home of Henry Hastings Sibley, the company's young regional manager, was begun in 1838. A noted monument since its period of construction, the house evolved during Sibley's 20-some years there, as the isolated Mendota trading post became part of a bustling territory. Sibley's office as first state governor is located in one ell of the home.

Tour three of the restored structures, including a fur company cold store from 1843 and the 1840 residence of longtime trader-turned-hotelier Jean-Baptiste Faribault. Experienced guides unravel stories of the fur-trade era, uncover memories of changes to the area and the structures, and lead visitors through the fully furnished interiors and exhibits.