The Scriver Building isn't just another historic structure. It's where the James-Younger Gang met their defeat in 1876. It's where our community proved that ordinary citizens could stand up to outlaws and change the course of history. And for 50 years, it's been home to the Northfield History Center, our museum, and the setting of countless raid reenactments.

Now the building that anchors our community is in decline. Without intervention, we risk further deterioration of one of our community’s most important assets.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the raid and the 50th anniversary of the History Center. We're using that convergence to do something that honors both: restore the building, strengthen the organization, and invest in Northfield's future.

Our “Save the Scriver Building” campaign will:

  • Repair failing exterior bricks, stonework, stucco, windows, moldings, and our metal cornice.

  • Restore our facade to its 1876 appearance (so raid reenactments can happen in front of the building as it looked when history was made).

  • Revitalize two declining upstairs apartments and add three new apartments (creating new housing our community desperately needs and new recurring revenue to sustain our organization for the next 50 years).

  • Replace a number of building systems to make environmental, health, and safety upgrades to bring the building into the 21st century while honoring its past.

We’ve gathered the support of a wide range of notable Northfielders, and now we need your support as well.

Your tax-deductible gift of any amount is an investment in the future of Northfield’s past!

HELP US BY DONATING TODAY!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes, the Northfield Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are fully tax deductible.

  • Volunteers are an essential part of the Northfield History Center team. Contact director@northfieldhistory.org for more information.

  • We’re happy to discuss possibilities with you. Please contact campaign@northfieldhistory.org

  • Certainly! Send us a note at campaign@northfieldhistory.org and we’ll honor the person of your choice.