Dakota County History 101: Henry Hastings Sibley (1811-1891)

Henry Sibley was born Feb. 20, 1811 in Detroit, Michigan Territory.  Sibley’s association with the American Fur Company, which began in 1829, would lead him to Minnesota where he became one of the most prominent early leaders in the state. In 1836 Sibley arrived in Mendota (near Fort Snelling) as a sutler for American Fur. The familiarity Sibley gained with the Dakota Indians through the fur trade would become significant during his political career.

Sibley became a Congressional delegate in Minnesota Territory in 1849 after having already held public office in Michigan, Iowa Territory, and Wisconsin Territory previously. In 1854, Sibley was elected to the Minnesota Legislature. Sibley narrowly defeated Alexander Ramsey (by 240 votes) to become Minnesota’s first governor. As a politician, Sibley set aside two-sections of land in each township to be used to fund public schools, was instrumental in shaping Minnesota's state constitution and selected the state seal.

Sibley was also involved in Minnesota culture and industry. He helped establish the Minnesota Historical Society and served as one of its first presidents. The fur trade, lumber and steamboats were among the industries in which Sibley played prominent roles. Sibley also platted the city of Hastings in 1853 with Alexis Bailly and Alexander Faribault— the town is named for Sibley (his middle name) in a drawing of lots taken among the proprietors.

Henry Hastings Sibley died on February 18, 1891.