Stillwater is often called the "birthplace of Minnesota". In 1848, a territorial convention that began the process of establishing Minnesota as a state was held in Stillwater, at the corner of Myrtle and Main streets. Originally part of the Wisconsin Territory, Minnesota officially became a separate territory in 1849 and, after population increases, a state in 1858. thumb|Looking south on Main Street in Stillwater, mid-1870s. As more evidence of Stillwater's importance at the time, the territorial convention selected three leading Minnesota cities as locations for three important public institutions: Saint Paul was designated as the capital; the University of Minnesota was established at Minneapolis; and Stillwater became the site of the territory's first prison. The Minnesota Territorial Prison (later Minnesota State Prison) was opened in 1853. The prison held Cole, Jim, and Bob Younger, three of the Younger brothers of the James–Younger Gang.
Stillwater is often called the "birthplace of Minnesota" In 1848 a territorial convention that began the process of establishing Minnesota as a state was held in Stillwater at the corner of Myrtle and Main streets Originally part of the Wisconsin Territory Minnesota officially became a separate territory in 1849 and after population increases a state in 1858 thumb|Looking south on Main Street in Stillwater mid-1870s As more evidence of Stillwater's importance at the time the territorial convention selected three leading Minnesota cities as locations for three important public institutions Saint Paul was designated as the capital; the University of Minnesota was established at Minneapolis; and Stillwater became the site of the territory's first prison The Minnesota Territorial Prison (later Minnesota State Prison) was opened in 1853 The prison held Cole Jim and Bob Younger three of the Younger brothers of the James–Younger Gang