Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children
Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children, Historic orphanage and educational institution in Owatonna, United States
The Minnesota State Public School features a Romanesque Revival administration building and sixteen residential cottages spread across 329 acres of former farmland.
From 1886 to 1945, this state-run institution provided education and housing for 10,635 children, operating under a cottage system inspired by the Michigan State Public School.
The facility marked a shift from traditional orphanages to a structured educational environment where children received formal schooling through eighth grade in secular settings.
The museum complex at 540 West Hills Circle includes restored buildings, an outdoor audio tour with six stations, and exhibits displaying original artifacts.
The campus maintains its position as one of the most complete examples of state cottage schools remaining in the United States.
Location: Owatonna
Architects: Warren Dunnell
Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture
GPS coordinates: 44.08972,-93.23833
Latest update: September 23, 2025 14:24
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