House File 2164 proposes St. Peter as honorary state capital of Minnesota

In a recent meeting of the Minnesota House State Government Finance and Policy Committee, discussions centered around House File 2164, a bill proposing to designate St. Peter as the honorary state capital of Minnesota. This proposal is rooted in historical significance, as St. Peter was once a contender for the state capital in the mid-1850s, nearly surpassing St. Paul.

Ed Lee, Executive Director of the St. Peter Tourism Bureau and Chamber of Commerce, presented the bill, emphasizing the importance of recognizing St. Peter's historical role. He recounted a dramatic tale involving legislator Joe Rowlett, who allegedly thwarted St. Peter's bid for capital status by hiding out in St. Paul and manipulating legislative processes. This historical anecdote highlights the intrigue and political maneuvering of the time, suggesting that Minnesota's capital could have been located in St. Peter had it not been for Rowlett's actions.

Lee argued that the honorary designation would enhance tourism and foster a greater appreciation for local history. He likened the initiative to other historical tourism efforts in Minnesota, such as those celebrating the Jesse James days in Northfield. The bill aims to attract visitors from surrounding states and promote St. Peter's unique historical narrative.

Dustin Scharstrom, a city council member and social studies teacher in St. Peter, also provided testimony, reinforcing that the bill is not an attempt to rewrite history but rather to acknowledge and celebrate it. He proposed that a sign be placed in Gorman Park, named after the territorial governor at the time, to educate future generations about St. Peter's historical significance.

While the committee members expressed support for the bill, some voiced a desire for discussions on more pressing legislative matters. Nonetheless, the proposal to honor St. Peter reflects a broader effort to engage communities in their historical narratives and promote local tourism.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of this honorary designation could resonate beyond tourism, potentially fostering a renewed interest in Minnesota's rich history and the stories that shape its communities. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the bill and its potential impact on St. Peter and the state as a whole.