History
The Octagon House was built in 1857 by James
Lawther, a 25-year-old Irish pioneer who sought his fortune
in Red Wing when it was still a small river settlement. One
of the town’s first mayors, Lawther achieved prominence
as a successful land speculator, real estate agent, banker,
and generous philanthropist.
Lawther
adopted the octagonal design for the house, it is reported,
because he believed
it made the most economical
use of space and also fostered the health and harmony of
its inhabitants. A few years after the original structure
was built on its 18-inch solid rock foundation, Lawther
added a kitchen, dining room, servants’ quarters, and
carriage house.
Listed on the National Register of Historic
Places, the Octagon House is located on what has been judged “the
most architecturally significant intersection in Minnesota.” |
|
