Cities and Towns in Faribault County, Minnesota
Founded in 1855, Faribault County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Faribault County was formed from Blue Earth County. The city of Blue Earth is the county seat. With FIPS code of 43, Faribault County has a population of 13,909 and area of 713.63 square miles (1,848 km²).
List of all cities in Faribault County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Blue Earth, MN | 56013 | 507 |
| Bricelyn, MN | 56014 | 507 |
| Delavan, MN | 56023 | 507 |
| Easton, MN | 56025 | 507 |
| Elmore, MN | 56027 | 507 |
| Frost, MN | 56033 | 507 |
| Huntley, MN | 56047 | 507 |
| Kiester, MN | 56051 | 507 |
| Minnesota Lake, MN | 56068 | 507 |
| Walters, MN | 56097 | 507 |
| Wells, MN | 56097 | 507 |
| Winnebago, MN | 56098 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Faribault County, Minnesota
1. Blue Earth
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.27 square miles
- Population: 3,100 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56013
- Latitude: 43.65° N
- Longitude: 94.12° W
City Location and History
Blue Earth, the county seat of Faribault County, is located in the southern part of Minnesota, at the confluence of the Blue Earth River and Minnesota River. The city was first settled in the mid-1850s and was officially incorporated in 1872. The name “Blue Earth” comes from the Blue Earth River, which received its name from the blue-colored clay found along its banks. Early settlers were primarily from Europe, including German and Scandinavian immigrants, and agriculture quickly became the backbone of the local economy.
Historically, Blue Earth was an important hub for trade and transportation, particularly during the railroad era, when the town was a key stop along the Chicago and Northwestern Railway. In the early 20th century, Blue Earth was known for its vibrant commercial district and prosperous farming community. Today, the city remains a center for agriculture and small business, while also serving as a gateway for tourists exploring the picturesque countryside and nearby recreation areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Blue Earth is served by the Blue Earth Area School District, which includes Blue Earth Area High School and Blue Earth Area Middle School, offering a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Jolly Green Giant statue, a 55-foot tall fiberglass figure that honors the city’s historical connection to the Green Giant food company, which once had a processing plant in the area. Another popular destination is the Faribault County Historical Society Museum, which preserves the local history with exhibits on early settlers and the region’s agricultural roots. Riverside Park offers scenic views of the Blue Earth River, providing recreational space for picnicking, walking, and outdoor sports. The Minnesota State Highway 169 runs through Blue Earth, providing easy access to other towns and cities, making it a popular stop for travelers. The city also hosts annual events such as the Jolly Green Giant Days, celebrating local culture, food, and entertainment.
2. Fairmont
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 5.44 square miles
- Population: 10,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 56031
- Latitude: 43.65° N
- Longitude: 94.43° W
City Location and History
Fairmont is located in the southeastern part of Faribault County, approximately 35 miles north of Mankato. Known as the “City of Lakes” due to its proximity to several natural lakes, including Lake Sisseton and Hall Lake, Fairmont’s location made it an attractive spot for settlement. The city was founded in 1857, and its name is believed to have been chosen because of the area’s scenic beauty, with “fair” meaning beautiful and “mont” meaning mountain.
The city became an important commercial and transportation center after the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s. During the early 20th century, Fairmont’s economy boomed with the growth of the railroad, agricultural industries, and dairy production. The lakes surrounding the town made it a popular resort area, and it remains a sought-after spot for outdoor recreation. Today, Fairmont is a thriving city, blending its rich agricultural history with a growing business sector and increasing tourism, particularly related to its lakes and outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fairmont is served by the Fairmont Area School District, which includes Fairmont High School, Fairmont Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its excellent academic offerings, as well as its strong athletics programs. Fairmont’s lakes remain one of its most prominent features, with Lake Sisseton and Hall Lake offering boating, fishing, and water-based recreation. The Martin County Historical Society is a significant local landmark, preserving the region’s history with a museum and historical exhibits. The Fairmont Opera House hosts a variety of performances and cultural events, contributing to the city’s thriving arts scene. Additionally, South Park and Gomsrud Park offer public spaces for sports, picnics, and community events. The city’s Annual Fairmont Water Carnival is a major local event, featuring water sports, live music, a carnival, and fireworks, drawing residents and visitors alike. The Fairmont Golf Course is another popular attraction, providing both residents and visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while playing a round of golf.
3. Minnesota Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.87 square miles
- Population: 250 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56068
- Latitude: 43.91° N
- Longitude: 94.09° W
City Location and History
Minnesota Lake is a small town located in the northeastern part of Faribault County, approximately 15 miles east of Blue Earth and near the Blue Earth River. Originally settled in the 1860s, Minnesota Lake was founded primarily as an agricultural community, with early settlers cultivating crops like wheat and corn. The town was incorporated in 1900, and its name reflects its proximity to the nearby Minnesota Lake, a natural body of water that was a significant feature for early settlers.
Over the years, the town has remained a small but important agricultural hub, with farming continuing to be a central aspect of life in the area. Though Minnesota Lake has seen slow population growth, it maintains a rural charm with its scenic landscapes, farming traditions, and proximity to other Faribault County towns. The town has experienced modest expansion in recent years, but it retains its small-town atmosphere, attracting people seeking a quieter lifestyle and connection to nature.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Minnesota Lake is part of the Maple River School District, which includes Maple River High School in nearby Madison Lake. Although small, the district offers a strong educational program, with a focus on both academic success and extracurricular activities. The town is home to Minnesota Lake City Park, which provides a space for outdoor recreation, including walking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for local events. The Minnesota Lake Museum showcases the town’s history and heritage, focusing on the agricultural past and the founding of the community. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty, with the Minnesota Lake providing opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The town also hosts the Minnesota Lake Heritage Days, an annual event that celebrates local culture with a parade, food, and activities for all ages. Despite its small size, the city offers residents and visitors a welcoming atmosphere, with access to local parks and the surrounding countryside.
4. Kiester
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.86 square miles
- Population: 550 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56051
- Latitude: 43.68° N
- Longitude: 93.72° W
City Location and History
Kiester is a small rural town located in the central part of Faribault County, about 17 miles west of Blue Earth. The town was established in the late 1800s, and it grew steadily during the early years, largely due to its proximity to the railroad and the surrounding farmland. The community was named after Kiester, a family who settled in the area and was instrumental in its early development.
Agriculture has always been the backbone of Kiester’s economy, with dairy farming and grain production taking center stage. The town experienced a surge of growth during the early 20th century as the local railroad helped transport goods to other areas, but over time the population stabilized. Today, Kiester is a quiet, rural town that offers a more peaceful way of life. With easy access to larger communities like Blue Earth and Fairmont, residents can enjoy a rural lifestyle with proximity to urban amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kiester is part of the United South Central School District, which includes United South Central High School in nearby Glenville. The district offers a range of educational opportunities, including sports and arts programs. The town is home to Kiester City Park, a local green space where residents enjoy picnics, sports, and family events. One of the key attractions in the area is The Kiester Historical Society, which preserves the town’s agricultural roots and history. The town also hosts an annual Kiester Fun Days celebration, featuring a parade, carnival, and games, bringing the local community together for a celebration of small-town life. With its small-town charm, access to outdoor activities, and close-knit community, Kiester offers a peaceful place for families to live and grow.