New Ulm, MN

New Ulm, Minnesota is a city located in Brown County, in the southern part of the state. It has a rich and unique history that dates back to the mid-19th century.

New Ulm was founded in 1854 by a group of German immigrants, led by Frederick Beinhorn. The settlers chose the area because it reminded them of their homeland in Germany, and they sought to create a new community with a German character. The city was named after the city of Ulm in Germany.

One of the defining events in New Ulm's history occurred during the Dakota War of 1862. The war was a conflict between the Dakota Sioux tribe and the United States government. In August 1862, tensions between the Dakota Sioux and the settlers in the region escalated, leading to an attack on New Ulm.

The settlers organized a defense, and for several days, they battled the Dakota Sioux, successfully defending the city. However, several buildings were destroyed during the attack, and many residents were killed or injured. The Battle of New Ulm became a significant event in the history of the Dakota War and is still remembered today.

Following the war, New Ulm began to rebuild and prosper. The city attracted more German immigrants, and their influence can still be seen in the architecture, culture, and traditions of New Ulm. German heritage is celebrated through festivals, music, and food.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, New Ulm became a center for the brewing industry. Several breweries were established in the city, and it gained a reputation for producing high-quality beer. Although prohibition in the 1920s led to the closure of most breweries, August Schell Brewing Company managed to survive and is one of the oldest family-owned breweries in the United States.

Today, New Ulm is a vibrant and thriving community. It continues to celebrate its German heritage with events like the Oktoberfest and German Christmas Market. The city's historic downtown district attracts tourists with its well-preserved architecture, charming shops, and restaurants.

In addition to its rich history, New Ulm is also known for its scenic beauty, natural attractions, and recreational opportunities. The nearby Minnesota River Valley and Flandrau State Park provide residents and visitors with numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Overall, the history of New Ulm, Minnesota is intertwined with the story of German immigration, resilience, and community building. It is a city that continues to honor its roots while embracing progress and growth.

Schell's Brewing Company

This is the second oldest family-owned brewery in the United States and offers tours and tastings.

Flandrau State Park

A beautiful park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a swimming beach.

Hermann Heights Monument

A 102-foot tall monument dedicated to the memory of the 2,000-year-old tradition of Hermann the German, located at Hermann Heights Park.

Minnesota Music Hall of Fame

Showcasing the state's rich music history, featuring exhibits on famous musicians and bands from Minnesota.

Glockenspiel Clock Tower

A 45-foot tall clock tower with an animated clock show and chimes that play every hour.

August Schell Museum of Brewing

Located at the Schell's Brewing Company, the museum displays brewing equipment, photographs, and artifacts from the company's history.

New Ulm Art Center and Gallery

A non-profit organization featuring various art exhibits and a gift shop with locally-made art.

Brown County Historical Society Museum

Showcasing the history and culture of Brown County with exhibits on early settlers, Native Americans, and the Dakota War of 1862.

Wanda Gag House

The childhood home of Wanda Gag, a famous author and illustrator, which is now a museum highlighting her life and work.

Bavarian Blast

An annual festival held in July that celebrates New Ulm's German heritage with live music, beer gardens, food, and traditional German activities.

New Ulm, Minnesota has a humid continental climate. Summers in New Ulm are warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (29-31°C) in June to the mid-70s°F (23-25°C) in August. However, temperatures can occasionally reach the mid-90s°F (32-35°C) during heatwaves. Summers are also the wettest season in New Ulm, with frequent thunderstorms and an average of 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) of precipitation per month.

Winters in New Ulm are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures in December, January, and February range from the mid-20s°F (-4 to -2°C), with lows dropping below 10°F (-12°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with over 50 inches (127 cm) of snowfall annually. The city also experiences occasional blizzard conditions due to strong winds and heavy snowfall.

Spring and autumn in New Ulm are transitional seasons with relatively mild temperatures. Spring sees a gradual warming up after the winter, with average high temperatures climbing from the low 40s°F (4-6°C) in March to the low 60s°F (15-18°C) in May. Autumn brings cooler temperatures as the season progresses, with average highs dropping from the low 60s°F (15-18°C) in September to the low 40s°F (4-6°C) in November. These seasons also experience moderate precipitation.

Overall, New Ulm experiences distinct seasons with a wide range of temperatures and precipitation throughout the year.

New Ulm, Minnesota, is a charming city with several unique neighborhoods. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in New Ulm:

Downtown

New Ulm's historic downtown area is the heart of the city. It features stunning architecture, including many well-preserved German-style buildings. Downtown New Ulm is home to various shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks like the Brown County Historical Society Museum and the Glockenspiel Clock Tower.

German Street

Located just off downtown, German Street reflects New Ulm's strong German heritage. German Street boasts beautiful homes with traditional German architectural influences, including half-timbered houses. The neighborhood is also known for its Oktoberfest celebrations, where residents and visitors can experience German culture, food, and music.

Skaro Heights

Skaro Heights is a peaceful residential neighborhood on the southern edge of New Ulm. The area features more modern homes and is known for its spacious lots and quiet streets. Skaro Heights is ideal for families and individuals seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city's amenities.

Summit Avenue

Summit Avenue is a highly sought-after neighborhood due to its picturesque tree-lined streets and charming homes. Many of the houses here display beautiful craftsmanship and historic detailing. Summit Avenue is close to local schools, parks, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive option for families.

Northside

The Northside neighborhood is known for its friendly community atmosphere. It offers a mix of historic homes, newer constructions, and apartment buildings. Northside is conveniently located near the city's parks and recreational areas, including Flandrau State Park and Hermann Heights Park.

Southside

New Ulm's Southside neighborhood is a diverse community with various housing options. It features a mix of older and newer homes, as well as apartments. Southside is known for its proximity to the Minnesota River and beautiful green spaces, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor activities.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up the vibrant city of New Ulm. Each area offers its own unique character and amenities, providing residents with a range of options when choosing a place to live.