Betsy-Tacy Houses Literary Landmarks

Destination Sites

How to get there: 332 and 333 Center Street, Mankato, Minnesota (Corner of Center & Lewis Streets)
What you will find: Two homes, one a museum and the other an interpretive center and gift shop.
Services at this site:Yes

The Betsy-Tacy Houses Literary Landmarks stand a tribute to Maud Hart Lovelace (1892-1980), beloved author of the famed children’s series of Betsy-Tacy books. The author is the real-life character of “Betsy” and the books are historical fiction based on her childhood memories of growing up in Mankato, the fictionalized “Deep Valley.”

Betsy’s House is restored as a museum to look just as it did when Maud (Betsy) lived there from 1892-1906. Lovelace artifacts on display include Thomas Hart’s rocking chair and footstool, a corner cupboard and drop leaf table.  Tacy’s House is an interpretive center and gift shop. On display are many Lovelace artifacts including books, scrapbooks, photographs, manuscripts, Mrs. Hart’s (Mrs. Ray’s) original brass bowl, and much more.

Open Saturdays from 1-3pm; reservations required during the week; admission charged.

Things to Do: Destination Site, Museum