City of Fairmont Minnesota Old Photos and Memories

Fairmont, Minnesota Old Photos and Memories – A Nostalgic Tribute to the City of Fairmont Minnesota

The City of Fairmont Minnesota holds a special place in the hearts of those who’ve called it home. Through the lens of old photographs and treasured memories, we revisit the people, places, and everyday moments that shaped this charming lakeside community. From grainy snapshots of early Main Street to candid family gatherings along the shores of Fairmont’s Chain of Lakes, each image tells a story—preserving the soul of a city where tradition and neighborly spirit run deep.

Whether you're a lifelong resident, a former Fairmont Cardinal, or someone discovering the town’s rich heritage for the first time, these timeless memories offer a glimpse into a proud local history. The City of Fairmont Minnesota is more than just a location—it's a living scrapbook filled with meaningful connections, vintage landmarks, and unforgettable community events.

Edgewater Inn – A Classic Piece of Fairmont History

This vintage photo of the Edgewater Inn is a treasured reminder of the hospitality and charm that once welcomed travelers and locals alike in the City of Fairmont Minnesota. Located near the scenic lakes, the Edgewater inn was known for its cozy atmosphere and beautiful views—a favorite stop for visitors and a memorable landmark for longtime residents.

 

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Christmas in Fairmont – Winter Wonderland, 1951

This classic 1951 Christmas photo captures a festive winter scene in the City of Fairmont Minnesota, looking south from mid-block between 3rd and 2nd Streets. On the left stands the historic Masonic Hall, a well-known structure in Fairmont’s downtown skyline. Below it, Wallace's Department Store—where I had the pleasure of working—bustled with holiday shoppers, bright window displays, and seasonal spirit. This image perfectly reflects the charm and community warmth that defined Christmas in Fairmont during the golden years.

East Side Store – A Sweet Stop Near Veterans Park

This beloved local grocery store, known as the East Side Store, stood just by what is now Veterans Park in the City of Fairmont Minnesota. As children, many of us eagerly walked here with a few coins in our pockets, ready to buy penny candy from the small shelves inside. It wasn’t just a store—it was part of our childhood routine, filled with friendly faces and simple joys. The photo below shows how it looks today, holding onto the spirit of those sweet, simpler times.

 

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Hotel Gilbert – A Grand Piece of Fairmont’s Past

This historic photo showcases the Hotel Gilbert, once a proud landmark in the City of Fairmont Minnesota. Originally constructed in 1916 as the Ward Home for Dependent Children, the building was a marvel of its time, costing $160,000—a significant sum back then. No expense was spared, as it featured modern amenities like hot, cold, and soft water.

In 1940, Harry Gilbert purchased the property and transformed it into the Gilbert Hotel, a venture that brought new life to the once-vacant structure. Caretaker Leo Krueger remained on-site until March 1, 1941, after which the building entered its next chapter. Though the hotel stood proudly for decades, it was eventually razed in 2007—along with two neighboring structures—to make way for Kwik Trip.

This photo reminds us of a time when architecture was bold, and every building had a story.

You Know You're from Fairmont If... You Helped Clean Up the Junior High—Then Watched It Burn Down

In the City of Fairmont Minnesota, some memories are etched deeply into our collective history—and this is one of them. Many locals will never forget helping to clean up the smoke and water damage at the Fairmont Junior High School, only to stand in disbelief just a week later as the building tragically burned to the ground. It wasn’t just a school—it was a community landmark filled with laughter, learning, and generations of students. This moment brought sadness, unity, and a deep reminder of how quickly the familiar can be lost.

 

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The Iconic Redwood Inn – A Memory in Full Color

This beautiful, colored photo captures the old Redwood Inn, a beloved establishment in the City of Fairmont Minnesota. Known for its delicious meals, warm ambiance, and the community gatherings it hosted, the Redwood Inn was a staple for both locals and visitors alike. Its distinct charm and welcoming atmosphere made it a favorite spot for many generations. As we look back on this piece of Fairmont's history, this photo serves as a reminder of the timeless places that have shaped the town.

Gas Station on N Main – A Snapshot of Holiday Cheer in Fairmont

This vintage photo shows a gas station across the street from 223 N Main in the City of Fairmont Minnesota, looking east. It’s a charming scene of the holiday season, with Christmas decorations adorning the poles, bringing festive cheer to the downtown area. At a time when gas stations were more than just places to fuel up, they were often local hubs where people stopped, chatted, and caught up on the news. This image captures the spirit of Fairmont, blending everyday life with the warmth of holiday tradition.

Eastern Star Chapter – A Community Tradition in Fairmont

 

This 1954 photo takes us back to a prominent social group in the City of Fairmont Minnesota—the Eastern Star chapter, which met in the chapter room above 204 N. North. For many families in Fairmont, the chapter was a significant part of their lives, with mothers, fathers, and other community members playing active roles. In this snapshot, we can see Gen Champine, my mother, proudly seated in the middle of the front row. The Eastern Star chapter brought people together, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that continues to resonate in the hearts of many.

 

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Old 1911 Map of Fairmont Township – A Glimpse into the Past

This fascinating 1911 map of Fairmont Township offers a snapshot of the City of Fairmont Minnesota and its surrounding area from over a century ago. Looking at this map today, we can see how much has changed, and there are some details worth noting:

1. The immense land holdings of A.L. Ward, famous for Ward’s Park, reflect just how much power and influence he had during his time.

2. The centralized layout of Fairmont, nestled along the rail line, shows how compact the town once was—not the sprawling urban area we see today.

3. The many lakes, streams, and wetlands that have been drained over the years are a testament to how much the land has transformed.

Fairmont Maytag Company – A Local Business Snapshot

This vintage photo showcases the Fairmont Maytag Company, a key business in the City of Fairmont Minnesota's history. While the exact location of this store remains uncertain, it's likely that it was situated either on First Street or North Avenue, central to the city's commercial heart. For years, Maytag was a trusted name in household appliances, and the local store provided Fairmont residents with quality service and products. This photo is a wonderful glimpse into the early days of Fairmont's bustling business district.

You Know You're From Fairmont If... You Remember the Sweet Shop Restaurant Fire, June 1972

One of the most unforgettable events in City of Fairmont Minnesota history was the devastating fire at the Sweet Shop Restaurant in June 1972. This tragic fire not only destroyed the beloved Sweet Shop, but also caused significant damage to nearby businesses, including Lake Theater, Rogers Jewelry, Ben Franklin, and Mahowald’s Hardware Store. For many, it was a defining moment, a reminder of how quickly things can change in a close-knit community. The resilience of Fairmont’s residents in the face of such destruction speaks to the town’s enduring spirit.