A Home to History
It's 1892...
Reportedly, the “American frontier” no longer exists, the so-called Gilded Age is waning, and Queen Victoria’s reign is near its end. The robber barons—American capitalism personified—assert power and personify prestige throughout the U.S. as the Morgans, Rockefellers, and Carnegies accumulate wealth and capital.
There on the edge of the Big Woods in Minnesota, the town of Faribault has already tapped into the abundance of trees and farmland that keeps its mills turning out a seemingly endless supply of lumber and flour. As in the East, the power and wealth of Faribault have settled into the hands of a relatively few influential businessmen—the town’s “Captains of Industry” as dubbed later by the Faribault Journal in 1903.
A home to pioneers
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And what a home it is...
Situated on a high lot among many of Faribault’s oldest and most prestigious homes, the three-story octagonal turret is impossible to miss as guests approach. The day’s news or perhaps even a little gossip is exchanged between friends and neighbors on the expansive wrap-around front porch. While in the living room featuring a wood-burning fireplace and ornate trim work, visitors enjoy rare Victorian furnishings and displays. Are those the “Captains” in the spacious dining room and parlor sipping brandy and debating politics?
End to an Era
The Honorable John Hutchinson Jr. lost his second wife, Eunice, to Bright’s disease a few years after moving into their Faribault “dream home”. Fortunately, there was plenty of room for Thomas (Eunice’s only surviving child) and Mr. Hutchinson’s two surviving daughters, MayBelle and Luella, from his first marriage with Lucy who passed away in 1876. Even for the well-to-do in Faribault, life was precious and survival was a daily chore, even for the affluent with means. In 1902, at age 62, John married his third wife, Anna, and his sixth child, Henry, was born.
It is said that all good things must come to an end. In 1915, in declining health, Master Hutchinson, Anna, and their young son moved to California leaving their majestic home behind. At 75 years old, Master Hutchinson passed away on November 10, 1915.
Castle Fit for
a Captain
John Hutchinson, Jr., Original Homeowner
One man in particular, John Hutchinson, Jr., a Civil War veteran, and partner in both the Faribault Furniture Company and the Faribault Roller Mills, has the “strong business sense and untiring industry” to leave his father’s farm near Dundas, Minn. Like his peers throughout the U.S., Mr. Hutchinson's financial success and acumen provide the means to have a grand Queen Anne Victorian home built for his growing family on the corner of 2nd and Maple, a mere three blocks west of bustling downtown Faribault.
A New Beginning
During its 130+ year history, The Hutch has been a private residence, a boarding house, and a bed and breakfast. Today, it's a boutique inn & suites and home to Josh and Emily Anderson.
The Andersons are the 9th owners of the Historic Hutch House. And by owners, we really mean stewards. That's because this beautiful home, which has stood tall since 1892, is not merely personal property. It's a historical treasure that is built to be shared with family, friends, and guests who are looking to experience old-world charm with modern-day comfort. A legacy of hospitality and generosity started generations before us and it's a tradition we plan to continue for years to come.