Facts and History
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Facts and History
Rochester's Beginning
From the lure of fresh water and fertile lands to the soaring heights (341 feet) of its tallest building, Rochester offers much to savor in its 153-year history.
Rochester Ranked Top City
Rochester is consistently named as one of the nation's top cities to live. Here's a look at a few of Rochester's rankings...
The Corn Cob Water Tower
The water tower serves the Seneca Foods canning factory and has a presence in Rochester right up there with the geese. The ear of corn is 151 feet tall and has stood over the cannery since 1931.Reid-Murdoch Co. of Chicago - Monarch Foods
IBM and Housing Boom
When IBM announced their new plant was to be built in Rochester in 1956, home building nearly doubled, from 261 permits in '56 to 501 in '57. This record would not be broken until 1989.
Background of Mayo Clinic
When a tornado swept through the fledgeling frontier town of Rochester in 1883, it destroyed houses and killed 24 people. Dr. William Worrall Mayo and his sons were
St. Mary's Hospital
The hospital was located at the west end of Zumbro Street (Second Street SW). It officially opened Oct. 1, 1889, with 45 beds.
Plummer House
Dr. Henry and Mrs. Plummer's home was built on 60 acres of land purchased in 1916. The house was completed eight years later in 1924.
More Interesting Facts
Business
As one of the nation's fastest growing cities, Rochester's economic growth continues to surge. This is due to the progressive businesses that reside here.
Mayo Clinic
Mayo offers their patients the best medical expertise in the world. Today, the Mayo Clinic provides care to over half a million people via 2.3 million visits annually.
IBM - A Vibrant Force in Rochester
IBM's award-winning Rochester branch is the city's second-largest employer and has earned more U.S. patents than any other company for 14 years.
The business of agriculture
Rochester has many different types of agriculture, from corn to cows, and even includes an alpaca farm. Southeast Minnesota agriculture offers a little of everything for everyone.
Arts and Entertainment
Rochester offers a variety of cultural activities including concerts, theater, art galleries, tours and museums.