About Us

The Robinson-Stanton House — 202 2nd Avenue South, Sauk Rapids, MN

Thank you for visiting our webpage.

Our home, the historic Robinson-Stanton House, was built in 1873 from locally quarried granite—one of the earliest granite homes in Minnesota. Constructed by Leonard Robinson, a local dam builder and quarryman, it soon became the residence of Judson Stanton, whose flour mill was the first building destroyed in the devastating 1886 tornado. Though the house sustained damage, it remained standing. The Stanton family lived here until the mid-1920s.

In 1944, the Hommerding family purchased the property, opening their home to residents and operating it as a board and care facility until 2011.

The Benton County Historical Society & Museum later acquired the home. Following initial renovations we moved into the building in late 2022. Work continues today, with new gallery space set to open in fall 2026.

Interest in preserving Benton County’s rich and diverse history dates back to the early 1900s, when residents gathered informally to share stories and artifacts. A formal constitution was adopted in 1949, and with the support of the Aristonian Club—women dedicated to community projects—the historical society gained the structure it needed to grow and move forward. Dorothy Milner, Connie Driscoll, and Bev Abraham, together with a committed Board of Directors, helped shape the path the society follows today.

For nearly thirty years, Mary Ostby, former board member and Executive Director, was the heart and soul of the Benton County Historical Society. While a passionate advocate for preserving history and artifacts, her true gift was bringing the community together and making history fun. Few can think of the society without remembering her tireless work. Her championing of the Robinson-Stanton House saved this National Register of Historic Places landmark from demolition, and her dedication laid the foundation the museum and society continue to build upon today.

Today, the Benton County Historical Society continues to honor the past while inspiring the future. Through our exhibits, programs, and events, we celebrate the people, places, and stories that shape our community. We invite you to explore, learn, and become part of Benton County’s ongoing history.

Board of Directors & Staff