Old Main Cornerstone. Collection, 1869-1969.

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: MSU Archives Collection 022

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Old Main Cornerstone Box collection has been divided into four series. The series are: Newspapers, Miscellaneous, Photographs, and Business Cards. Items in the newspaper section have been arranged chronologically. Items in the three other sections have been arranged alphabetically.

Dates

1869-1969

Conditions Governing Use

There are no restrictions on use of this collection for research purposes. The researcher assumes full responsibility for observing all copyright, property and libel laws as they apply.

Biographical / Historical

The original cornerstone laying ceremony took place 22 June 1869. Participants in the ceremony included school faculty and students, as well as local public school teachers and students, Mankato city officials, and representatives from various local organizations.

The Old Main building was destroyed by fire in 1922. The tin cornerstone box was not damaged, however. It was opened and additional items were added, and then resealed on 21 April 1923. The box was placed in the new Old Main before the building was dedicated in April 1924.

The cornerstone box was opened on 3 May 1968 as part of the centennial observation ceremony. A new cornerstone box, with additional items, was placed in the building. The box was retrieved when the lower campus buildings were sold.

Information for this finding aid was obtained from the accession collection information form.

Extent

3.00 Cubic Feet (1 oversized box, 2 Hollinger boxes, 18 oversized folders.)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The Old Main Cornerstone Box collection consists of items taken from the cornerstone box in Old Main on the lower campus of Mankato State Normal School during its construction in 1869. The time capsule includes newspapers, business cards from local businesses, photographs, and university course offering catalogs. Additional items were added to the cornerstone box in 1923 and 1969.