The First 150 Years

by Marian Anderson

When I started this painting I wanted to express the progress of 150 years. I started at the bottom of the canvas and worked upward depicting the passage of time.

1882 begins with the tall prairie grass, limestone outcroppings and the bend of the Minnesota River. You will notice the spirits of the Native American. Placed at the bend in the river is the steam paddleboat, which was the first means of bringing people and materials to the new settlement. The early pioneers are remembered by the couple walking into the sunlight and the promise of a new future. Many other settlers arrived by stagecoach. Later the train replaced the paddleboats, bringing more settlers and supplies for the town to grow and develop.

Placed in the heart of the painting is an hourglass indicating time. The book, The History of the Minnesota Valley, is a respected book most referred to by historians wishing to learn about the settlement and history of this area.

There is a faint image of the streets of Mankato as they were in the flourishing beginnings of the town. You can recognize the streetcars that used to operate in the streets of Mankato and the horse drawn wagons.

The maple leaf represents two things, the passing of the seasons and the beauty of the Minnesota Valley. Mingled lightly you can detect an outline of Betsy, Tacy and Tib in memory of Mankato author Maud Hart Lovelace. Best known for her children's books written about growing up in Mankato, Lovelace's fictional "Deep Valley."

To the right of the picture is the First National Bank, which still exists as part of the Midwest Wireless Civic Center and represents the wealth of the community. Above the bank is Hubbard Milling, now Cargill, which represents industry. St. Peter and Paul's Catholic Church brings attention to all faiths of the community and Old Main represents education.

Front Street was painted as it was in the late 1960's, as many relish the memory of the old downtown. Entertainment is recalled by the three downtown theaters, the Grand, Town and State and fine dining of the time is remembered by a sign for Michaels.

Many years were enjoyed shopping at Madison East and now River Hills Mall. As we progress to the future we are reminded of time by the clock tower at the Minnesota State University campus. The Taylor Center, Midwest Wireless and the Intergovernmental Center remind us of the present.

The Lady of Justice from atop the courthouse holds the balance of all times. A vacant space at the top left represents future development. It is enhanced by today's street light and the Mankato banner as a symbol of hope for the future and respected memory of our forefathers. Lightly sketched is Amos Owen, who cannot be forgotten for his effort to bring reconciliation. The centennial edition of the Free Press shows the daily recording of the events of our area. The Main Street Bridge depicts the togetherness of the community.