Discover the darker side of history with Hubbard House Flashlight Tours in Mankato. Navigate attics and basements under dim light, uncovering Victorian mourning customs in a uniquely intimate setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Basic physical mobility required; able to walk stairs and stand for duration of the tour.
Wildlife
History
The R.D. Hubbard House, built in the late 1800s, stands as a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture and local Blue Earth history.
Conservation
The Blue Earth County Historical Society emphasizes responsible preservation, minimizing impact on this aging historic building while offering engaging access.
Blue Earth County Historical Society
Discover the darker side of history with Hubbard House Flashlight Tours in Mankato. Navigate attics and basements under dim light, uncovering Victorian mourning customs in a uniquely intimate setting.
Blue Earth County Historical Society is based in Mankato, Minnesota and offers public programming focused on the Historic R.D. Hubbard House. The Society presents guided tours and specialty experiences that interpret the architecture, material culture, and family history tied to the Hubbard property.
The R.D. Hubbard House Guided Tour runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day and showcases the house's French Second Empire architecture, innovations such as indoor plumbing, the history of the Hubbard family, the adjoining Victorian gardens, and the carriage house antique collections. These guided tours provide visitors with curated access to period rooms and artifacts that connect local history with the built environment.
The Hubbard House Flashlight Tours are a specialty offering that explores Victorian mourning customs and superstitions in an atmospheric, limited-capacity setting. Flashlight tours include access to restricted areas such as the attic and basement and are intentionally limited to just 10 participants to preserve an intimate visitor experience.
All programming is offered by the Blue Earth County Historical Society and takes place at the Hubbard House in Mankato, Minnesota. Visitors can expect historically grounded interpretation of the Hubbard House site, with opportunities to learn about domestic technology, Victorian-era customs, and the material legacy of the Hubbard family.
Location
Mankato, MN
Located in Blue Earth County
Guided Tours
Memorial Day–Labor Day
Seasonal daytime tours
Flashlight Tours
10 participants
Limited-capacity evening tour
Architectural Style
French Second Empire
Notable historic architecture
Book a guided tour between Memorial Day and Labor Day or secure a spot on a limited flashlight tour (10 participants maximum).
Arrive Early to Sign Waiver
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to complete the mandatory waiver before your tour begins.
Wear Practical Shoes
The tour includes stairs and uneven floors with no seating, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
Limited Group Size
Tours are capped at 10 people for an intimate experience—book well in advance to secure your spot.
Prepare for Low Light Conditions
A flashlight is provided, but participants should be comfortable navigating dark, narrow spaces with minimal lighting.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports safe movement on wooden stairs and uneven floors in the house.
Layered clothing
Allows for adjustment to fluctuating temperatures inside and outside the house.
spring
Warm jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cooler fall evening tours.
fall
Flashlight (optional)
Although one is provided, bring personal flashlight for extra visibility.