(St. Paul, MN) Senator Mark Koran (R-North Branch) recently met with representatives from the Folsom House in Taylor’s Falls, MN to discuss the preservation of this historic landmark. The pre-planning is now complete and the work to preserve this great historical asset will begin in the summer of 2020, thanks to funding passed through the Minnesota Senate in 2018. The Folsom House has been operated by the Taylors Falls Historical Society and the Minnesota Historical Society since 1969 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

The Minnesota Historical Society notes that the house is a remnant of a time when Taylors Falls was entwined with a booming logging industry. It was built in 1855, and the original owner, William Henry Carman Folsom, was a prominent businessman in the area. He later became a state representative and six-term state senator.

“This site adds huge significance and value to our area. I’m happy to be a part of the effort to provide the Folsom House with funds to complete their project. Generations to come should have the chance to appreciate beautifully preserved historic sites, which remind us of our past and give us the opportunity to reflect on our heritage,” said Sen. Koran.

The structure of the house and its surrounding buildings is painted wood, which has incurred significant wear and weathering over time. Additionally, according to the Minnesota Historical Society, some of the decorative, intricate lattices and railings are approaching failure. New drainage installations are necessary to mitigate water infiltration issues. The estimated total project cost is one million dollars. It is expected to be completed near the end of the year.