- Isaac N. Ebey writes to his brother Winfield S. Ebey to tell him about his life at his property near Port Townsend. He mentions waiting to hear word from the U.S. Congress regarding the possible formation of a separate northern territory (Washington Territory). Isaac discusses the growth of crops on his land, including potatoes, barley and wheat. Isaac also mentions that milk cows and oxen are expensive. Isaac asks Winfield if he has received any of the newspapers that he has purchased subscriptions to for him, including the “Columbian” and the “Statesman.” He points out that the land Donation Act has been renewed by Congress and tells his brother that he should move to the territory next year. He promises to send more money to Winfield and explains that any gap in sending money is due to Isaac’s spending on his own family and paying off old debts. He observes that many ships have passed through the Puget Sound and predicts that the area will be known for its commerce soon.
- New Canada Town Hall (maplewoodmn.gov)
The abandoned building at 1375 Frost Avenue is probably the oldest building in Maplewood. It was constructed in 1879 near the north end of Lake Phalen “to hold elections and transact all business connected with the town” (New Canada Township). The town government was led by three supervisors who were elected every year and most of the business in early years was to create and maintain roads and bridges. As the population grew, a more central location was needed and the building was moved to the south side of Frost Avenue in 1900.
