107 Gunderson Blvd
Kenyon, MN, USA

National Register of Historic Places - Martin T. Gunderson House

Statement of Significance:

Martin T, Gunderson settled in Kenyon, Minnesota, in 1883. At this time, he became involved in the operation of the L.A. Felt water-powered grist mill on the Zumbro River, this mill had been in operation on that site since 1855, In 1887 Gunderson, in partnership with J, A, McRe3molds, purchased the mill and improved its efficiency to a run of four stones. Later that year, Gunderson bought out his partner's share in the enterprise and became sole owner. In addition to the mill, Gunderson also owned a cooper shop for the manufacture of barrels in which the flour processed at the mill was packed and shipped.

Gunderson prospered and in 1894, a new mill and elevator was constructed in Kenyon along the railroad right-of-way. By 1896 Gunderson had installed a dynamo in the engine room of his mill and generated the first electrical current in Kenyon, together with his two sons, Raymond and Byron, Gunderson is credited with installation of the electrical poles and lines that provided residential and commercial lighting to the city.

The Gunderson family is significant, therefore, to the Kenyon area as that which produced the first major industrialist and introducer of electric energy in Kenyon's history

Further, the Gunderson House is a remarkably well preserved and excellent example of late nineteenth century Queen Anne Architecture, Both exterior and interior have been completely preserved to the extent of retaining original exterior color scheme, decorative spindle work, fixtures, hardware, and a majority of period furnishings. The Gunderson property continues to be a local showpiece of Victoriana, and although the barn and outbuildings no longer exist, both the house and the grounds continue to be meticulously maintained.