Cities and Towns in Freeborn County, Minnesota
Founded in 1855, Freeborn County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Freeborn County was formed from Blue Earth County and Rice County. The city of Albert Lea is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Freeborn County has a population of 30,749 and area of 707.64 square miles (1,833 km²).
List of all cities in Freeborn County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albert Lea, MN | 56007 | 507 |
| Alden, MN | 56009 | 507 |
| Clarks Grove, MN | 56016 | 507 |
| Conger, MN | 56020 | 507 |
| Emmons, MN | 56029 | 507 |
| Freeborn, MN | 56032 | 507 |
| Geneva, MN | 56035 | 507 |
| Glenville, MN | 56036 | 507 |
| Hartland, MN | 56042 | 507 |
| Hayward, MN | 56043 | 507 |
| Hollandale, MN | 56045 | 507 |
| London, MN | 56036 | 507 |
| Manchester, MN | 56007 | 507 |
| Myrtle, MN | 56036 | 507 |
| Oakland, MN | 56007 | 507 |
| Twin Lakes, MN | 56089 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Freeborn County, Minnesota
1. Albert Lea
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 17.91 square miles
- Population: 18,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 56007, 56022
- Latitude: 43.6845° N
- Longitude: 93.3704° W
City Location and History
Albert Lea is the county seat of Freeborn County and is situated in the southern part of Minnesota, along the shores of Lake Albert Lea and Lake Chapeau. The city was founded in 1855 and named after Albert Miller Lea, a topographer who surveyed the area in the 1830s. Originally a trading post for the region’s early settlers, the town grew rapidly with the arrival of the Chicago and North Western Railroad in the 1860s. This led to the development of a strong agricultural economy, with dairy farming and crop production being the backbone of the local economy. Albert Lea was incorporated as a city in 1878.
Over the years, Albert Lea has become a key commercial and cultural hub for Freeborn County. The city has maintained its connection to agriculture while also diversifying into manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Its location along Interstate 35 has made it a popular stop for travelers. Today, Albert Lea offers a blend of urban amenities with the charm of a smaller town, with an active arts scene, a strong school system, and beautiful natural surroundings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Albert Lea is served by the Albert Lea Area School District, which includes Albert Lea High School and Southwest Middle School. The city is home to several key landmarks, including Edgewater Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities like boating and picnicking, and Myre-Big Island State Park, which offers hiking and birdwatching opportunities. The Freeborn County Historical Museum offers visitors insight into the area’s past, with exhibits focusing on local history, including the city’s agricultural roots. Another notable landmark is the Historic Downtown District, where charming, historic buildings house shops, restaurants, and local businesses. The Albert Lea Art Center promotes the local arts, featuring rotating exhibits, classes, and cultural events. Albert Lea is also home to Lakeview Cemetery, the final resting place of several historical figures, and hosts the Albert Lea Jubilee Days, an annual festival celebrating the city’s heritage with parades, entertainment, and community gatherings.
2. Geneva
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.65 square miles
- Population: 330 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56035
- Latitude: 43.7657° N
- Longitude: 93.4240° W
City Location and History
Geneva is a small, rural town located in the central part of Freeborn County, about 10 miles west of Albert Lea. The town was originally settled in the 1850s by Norwegian and Swedish immigrants who were attracted to the fertile farmland and scenic surroundings. Geneva was incorporated in 1872, and it was named after Geneva, New York, the hometown of one of its early settlers. Agriculture, particularly crop and livestock farming, played a crucial role in the town’s early economy.
Geneva remained a small community throughout its history, with its population peaking in the early 20th century before stabilizing in recent decades. The town’s proximity to Albert Lea allowed its residents to benefit from the larger city’s commercial and service-oriented economy while still enjoying the quieter, rural lifestyle. Today, Geneva retains its small-town charm and strong sense of community, with a significant portion of its economy still tied to farming and agriculture. It is a quiet and peaceful location ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Geneva is part of the Albert Lea Area School District, with students attending schools in nearby Albert Lea. While Geneva does not have its own schools, it is served by the district’s excellent educational facilities. The town is known for its rural atmosphere and scenic surroundings, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. One of Geneva’s notable landmarks is Geneva Lake, a picturesque body of water ideal for outdoor recreation, especially fishing and boating. The Geneva Historical Society maintains a small museum dedicated to the town’s history, preserving artifacts and stories from its early days. Local events, such as the Geneva Community Picnic, bring together residents and visitors to celebrate the town’s heritage and sense of community. Geneva’s peaceful environment and strong ties to agricultural traditions make it a beloved place for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle close to Albert Lea.
3. Clarks Grove
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.79 square miles
- Population: 640 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56016
- Latitude: 43.7392° N
- Longitude: 93.3851° W
City Location and History
Clarks Grove is located in the northeastern part of Freeborn County, just a few miles southeast of Albert Lea. It was first settled in the late 1800s and was originally a farming community, with its residents focused on crop production and livestock farming. The town was named after Clark G. Grimes, a local landowner and early settler, and it was incorporated as a village in 1904.
Historically, Clarks Grove has remained a small, rural town, known for its agricultural heritage and close-knit community. The town grew as a farming hub, with a small residential population living around the farming operations. Despite its small size, Clarks Grove has remained an important part of Freeborn County’s agricultural economy and serves as a peaceful residential area for those who prefer a rural lifestyle. Its location near Lake Chapeau also makes it a desirable location for outdoor activities, offering a mix of rural serenity and easy access to the larger city of Albert Lea.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarks Grove is served by the Albert Lea Area School District, and its students attend schools in Albert Lea, including Albert Lea High School and Southwest Middle School. The town is known for its rural charm, with landmarks including Clarks Grove Park, which features a playground and picnic areas for families to enjoy. The Clarks Grove Historical Society preserves the town’s history, offering a glimpse into its agricultural past. The Clarks Grove Fire Department plays a key role in the community, hosting events and supporting local initiatives. The town is also known for its proximity to Lake Chapeau, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing and boating. Although small, Clarks Grove holds community gatherings throughout the year, including local parades and events that bring the town together for celebrations.
4. Twin Lakes
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56097
- Latitude: 43.7784° N
- Longitude: 93.4100° W
City Location and History
Twin Lakes is a small town located in the southeastern part of Freeborn County, near the intersection of U.S. Highway 69 and Interstate 35. The town takes its name from the two nearby lakes, Upper Twin Lake and Lower Twin Lake, which provide a beautiful backdrop for the area. Twin Lakes was originally established in the late 1800s as a resort community, catering to those looking to enjoy the lakes and the surrounding natural beauty. Over time, it became a more residential community as people sought a quiet, rural lifestyle close to the lakes.
While the town remained small throughout the 20th century, it has maintained its focus on outdoor recreation, with the lakes serving as the main attraction for visitors and residents alike. Fishing, boating, and hiking are popular pastimes, and Twin Lakes continues to attract people looking for a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. The town’s population has grown slightly in recent years, though it remains a quiet, rural location.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Twin Lakes is part of the Albert Lea Area School District, with students attending schools in Albert Lea, including Albert Lea High School and Southwest Middle School. The town is known for its natural beauty, particularly Upper and Lower Twin Lakes, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities. Twin Lakes Park provides a place for residents to gather for picnics and outdoor events. The Twin Lakes Community Center hosts various social gatherings, meetings, and events for locals. The town also celebrates the Twin Lakes Days Festival, an annual event that brings the community together with music, food, and entertainment. The lakes, along with the close-knit community, make Twin Lakes a great place to enjoy the beauty of Freeborn County’s rural landscape.
Major Cities and Towns in Freeborn County, Minnesota
1. Albert Lea
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 17.91 square miles
- Population: 18,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 56007, 56022
- Latitude: 43.6845° N
- Longitude: 93.3704° W
City Location and History
Albert Lea, the county seat of Freeborn County, is located in the southern part of Minnesota, near the Iowa border. Situated along the shores of Lake Albert Lea and Lake Chapeau, the city is known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Albert Lea was founded in 1855 and named after Albert Miller Lea, a topographer for the U.S. government who surveyed the region in the 1830s. The city grew rapidly as a center for agriculture and transportation, benefiting from its location along the Chicago and North Western Railroad, which arrived in the late 1860s.
The city’s early economy revolved around farming, particularly dairy and crop production, and by the late 1800s, Albert Lea had developed into a key regional trade hub. In the 20th century, Albert Lea became a center for manufacturing and retail, with several industries, including a prominent meatpacking plant, contributing to its growth. Over time, the city expanded to become a vibrant community, offering a mix of urban amenities and rural charm. Today, Albert Lea serves as the cultural and economic hub for Freeborn County and continues to be a popular stop for travelers along Interstate 35.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Albert Lea is served by the Albert Lea Area School District, which includes Albert Lea High School and Southwest Middle School. The district is well-regarded for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. Albert Lea is home to several key landmarks, including Edgewater Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities, picnicking, and boating on Lake Albert Lea. Myre-Big Island State Park, located just south of the city, offers hiking, camping, and birdwatching opportunities. The Freeborn County Historical Museum provides visitors with a glimpse into the area’s past, showcasing exhibits on local history, including its agricultural roots. The city is also home to the Historic Downtown District, featuring a collection of charming historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. One of Albert Lea’s most unique attractions is The Albert Lea Art Center, which offers rotating art exhibits, workshops, and cultural events. The city also celebrates its heritage through the annual Albert Lea Jubilee Days festival, which includes parades, entertainment, and community activities.
2. Geneva
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.65 square miles
- Population: 330 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56035
- Latitude: 43.7657° N
- Longitude: 93.4240° W
City Location and History
Geneva is a small rural town located in the central part of Freeborn County, about 10 miles west of Albert Lea. The town was first established in the mid-1800s by Norwegian and Swedish immigrants who were attracted to the fertile land and natural beauty of the area. Geneva was originally named after Geneva, New York, and grew steadily as an agricultural community, with farming being the main economic activity for most of its history. The town is situated along Freeborn County Highway 30, which connects it to Albert Lea and other regional towns.
While Geneva has remained a small community throughout its history, it has been an important part of the agricultural economy of Freeborn County. Over the years, the town has developed a close-knit, family-oriented atmosphere, with generations of families calling the area home. Today, Geneva retains much of its rural charm while benefiting from its proximity to Albert Lea, which provides residents with access to larger services, businesses, and amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Geneva is served by the Albert Lea Area School District, and students attend schools in nearby Albert Lea. The town itself does not have major schools, but it is part of a strong educational system in the county. Geneva is known for its small-town charm and rural surroundings, making it a quiet place for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and hunting. Geneva Lake, located just west of town, is a scenic spot for residents and visitors, offering opportunities for fishing and boating. The town is also home to the Geneva Fire Department, which plays a central role in the community’s civic activities. Geneva’s Historic District includes several well-preserved buildings that reflect its early settlement period. Local events, such as Geneva’s Annual Community Picnic, are an important part of the town’s social fabric, providing a chance for neighbors and families to gather and celebrate the town’s heritage.
3. Clarks Grove
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.79 square miles
- Population: 640 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56016
- Latitude: 43.7392° N
- Longitude: 93.3851° W
City Location and History
Clarks Grove is a small, peaceful town located in the northeastern part of Freeborn County, just a few miles southeast of Albert Lea. The town was established in the early 1900s and was named after Clark G. Grimes, a local landowner and early settler. The town grew as a farming community, with its residents relying primarily on agriculture and livestock production. Clarks Grove was incorporated as a village in 1904 and became a hub for the surrounding agricultural area.
The village is surrounded by fertile farmland and is a perfect example of a Minnesota “farm town.” It has retained its rural, agricultural atmosphere, with much of its economy based on farming, especially crop production and dairy. The village has remained small but is an integral part of Freeborn County’s rural identity. Over the years, Clarks Grove has provided a quiet, welcoming home for families seeking a slower-paced lifestyle close to nature. Its location just outside of Albert Lea makes it an attractive option for residents who want to be close to larger urban amenities while enjoying the peace and serenity of rural living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarks Grove is part of the Albert Lea Area School District, and students attend schools in Albert Lea. The village itself does not have major schools but benefits from the educational services provided by nearby Albert Lea. The town is known for its rural setting and close proximity to Lake Chapeau, which offers fishing and outdoor activities. Clarks Grove’s Historic District is home to several buildings dating back to the town’s early settlement, reflecting its agricultural past. Residents and visitors can also enjoy Clarks Grove Park, a community space with a playground and picnic areas, perfect for family gatherings. The town’s strong sense of community is also evident in its support for local events, including seasonal celebrations and fundraisers for the town’s various civic organizations, such as the Clarks Grove Volunteer Fire Department.
4. Twin Lakes
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56097
- Latitude: 43.7784° N
- Longitude: 93.4100° W
City Location and History
Twin Lakes is located in the southeastern part of Freeborn County, just a few miles south of Albert Lea. The town gets its name from the two lakes, Upper Twin Lake and Lower Twin Lake, that are situated nearby. The town was established in the late 1800s as a resort destination for visitors seeking to enjoy the lakes, fishing, and boating activities. Over time, Twin Lakes transitioned from a recreational destination to a more permanent residential community, although tourism still plays a significant role in the town’s economy.
Historically, Twin Lakes has been known for its scenic beauty, attracting both seasonal residents and visitors looking to enjoy the natural surroundings. Agriculture also played a role in the town’s early economy, as farming was a significant part of the surrounding area. The lakes continue to provide a major source of recreation, making Twin Lakes a desirable location for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The town’s population has remained relatively stable, with many residents appreciating its rural charm and the peaceful ambiance that comes with living near the water.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Twin Lakes is served by the Albert Lea Area School District, with students attending schools in Albert Lea. The town’s key landmarks include the Twin Lakes themselves, which remain a hub for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and camping. The Twin Lakes Park provides space for recreational activities, including picnicking and outdoor sports. The town is also home to the Twin Lakes Community Center, which hosts local events, meetings, and gatherings. The town’s annual events, such as Twin Lakes Days, bring together the community for celebrations, parades, and family-friendly activities. The town is an excellent base for enjoying the beauty of Freeborn County’s natural landscape and the outdoor activities that come with living near the lakes.
