Cities and Towns in Grant County, Minnesota
Founded in 1868, Grant County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Grant County was formed from Stevens County and Wilkin County, Traverse County. The city of Elbow Lake is the county seat. With FIPS code of 51, Grant County has a population of 6,153 and area of 546.41 square miles (1,415 km²).
List of all cities in Grant County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ashby, MN | 56309 | 218 |
| Barrett, MN | 56311 | 320 |
| Elbow Lake, MN | 56531 | 218 |
| Erdahl, MN | 56531 | 218 |
| Herman, MN | 56248 | 320 |
| Hoffman, MN | 56339 | 320 |
| Norcross, MN | 56274 | 320 |
| Wendell, MN | 56590 | 218 |
Major Cities and Towns in Grant County, Minnesota
1. Elbow Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.13 square miles
- Population: 1,300 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56531
- Latitude: 45.9704° N
- Longitude: 95.7105° W
City Location and History
Elbow Lake is the county seat of Grant County, located in west-central Minnesota. The city was named for the nearby Elbow Lake, which curves around in an elbow shape, creating a natural boundary and a picturesque setting. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe, before European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s. The town was established as a settlement in the early 1870s and incorporated in 1881. Its early economy was based on agriculture, with settlers growing grains, vegetables, and raising livestock. As the railroad reached the region in the late 19th century, Elbow Lake’s importance as a commercial hub grew.
The town continued to develop throughout the 20th century, maintaining a small-town rural charm while expanding its local services and industries. Today, Elbow Lake remains a quiet but active town with a strong agricultural base and a commitment to preserving its small-town atmosphere. Its location along the Pomme de Terre River and proximity to numerous lakes makes it a popular spot for outdoor activities, especially fishing and boating. Elbow Lake’s history is also preserved in the architecture of its historic downtown.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elbow Lake is served by the West Central Area Schools District, which includes West Central Area High School and Elbow Lake Elementary School. The city is home to several key landmarks, including Elbow Lake City Park, which features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a scenic walking trail along the shores of the lake. The Grant County Historical Society Museum provides insight into the area’s rich history, from Native American times to the arrival of European settlers. Pomme de Terre Lake is a nearby recreational destination, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. In addition, the Elbow Lake Courthouse is a notable historical building that serves as a reminder of the city’s role as the county seat. The annual Elbow Lake Summer Festival celebrates local culture, with a parade, live music, and various community events. The Grant County Fairgrounds also hosts events throughout the year, including the county fair, which is a major highlight for locals.
2. Herman
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.85 square miles
- Population: 400 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56248
- Latitude: 45.9744° N
- Longitude: 95.8266° W
City Location and History
Herman is a small city located in the northern part of Grant County, situated about 20 miles north of Elbow Lake. It was settled in the 1870s and originally named after a local homesteader, Herman Rasmussen. The city grew around the railroad, which was a major factor in its early development, as it enabled residents to transport agricultural products to larger markets. The community was primarily agricultural in its early years, with settlers focusing on farming grains, dairy, and livestock. Herman was officially incorporated as a village in 1881.
Throughout the 20th century, Herman remained a small but thriving agricultural community, though its population began to decline in the latter half of the century as people moved to larger cities for work. Despite this, Herman has retained its rural charm and continues to be a quiet, close-knit community. It is known for its small-town character, strong local ties, and a laid-back atmosphere. The city is surrounded by beautiful farmland and nature, offering a peaceful environment for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Herman is part of the Herman-Norcross School District, which serves students in the area through Herman-Norcross High School and Herman Elementary School. The city is home to several local landmarks, including the Herman City Park, a small but well-maintained area that provides a playground, picnic shelter, and space for local events. The Grant County Historical Society Museum in nearby Elbow Lake also covers the history of Herman, showcasing the agricultural roots of the region. The Herman Community Center serves as a gathering spot for social events, meetings, and local activities. Additionally, the surrounding countryside is ideal for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, with numerous nearby lakes and natural areas. The Herman Car Show is an annual event that attracts visitors from the region, celebrating classic cars and local culture.
3. Norcross
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.32 square miles
- Population: 40 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56570
- Latitude: 45.9417° N
- Longitude: 95.8792° W
City Location and History
Norcross is an unincorporated community located in the western part of Grant County, near the border with Otter Tail County. The community grew around the agricultural economy of the area and was originally established as a small settlement in the late 1800s. The town is named after Norcross in Massachusetts, reflecting the early influence of settlers from the northeastern United States. Like many small towns in Minnesota, Norcross was once a bustling hub for local commerce, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
However, as transportation and commerce evolved, the community saw a gradual decline in population and services. Today, Norcross is a small, rural area with very few remaining businesses or institutions. Most of the land is still used for agriculture, with dairy and crop farming being the main economic activities. The town’s close-knit community continues to maintain its rural character and offers a quiet, peaceful lifestyle for those who choose to live in this charming corner of the state.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Norcross does not have its own school district; children attend schools in the nearby communities, including West Central Area Schools. The closest major landmarks are located in the nearby towns of Elbow Lake and Herman. Visitors and residents can enjoy the Pomme de Terre River, which flows nearby, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. There are also numerous lakes in the surrounding area that offer recreational opportunities. While Norcross itself is quite small, it is part of the broader cultural and agricultural history of the region. The Norcross Cemetery serves as a reminder of the area’s long history, and the nearby Grant County Historical Society Museum in Elbow Lake preserves the legacy of the community’s settlers. The quiet, rural charm of Norcross continues to draw those seeking peace and privacy, surrounded by Minnesota’s beautiful landscapes.
4. Ashby
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.98 square miles
- Population: 500 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 56309
- Latitude: 45.8266° N
- Longitude: 95.8894° W
City Location and History
Ashby is located in the southwestern corner of Grant County and has a rich history rooted in agriculture. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a railroad town, with the arrival of the Great Northern Railway spurring its growth. It was named after Ashby, a town in Massachusetts, by early settlers who moved westward in search of new opportunities. The town was officially incorporated in 1900, and agriculture was its economic backbone for many years.
Though small in size, Ashby has maintained its rural, agricultural character, with corn, soybeans, and livestock farming continuing to be the backbone of the local economy. The town is a quiet, close-knit community where people value their local traditions and small-town lifestyle. In recent years, Ashby has become more of a bedroom community, with some residents commuting to nearby towns and cities for work while enjoying the tranquility of rural living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ashby is served by the Ashby School District, with Ashby High School and Ashby Elementary School providing educational opportunities for local children. The city’s notable landmarks include the Ashby City Park, which offers a playground, sports fields, and areas for picnics. The Ashby Community Center hosts various local events and provides a space for the town’s social gatherings. Nearby, Lake Ida provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Ashby’s annual Ashby Days festival celebrates the town’s heritage with a parade, carnival games, and a variety of local entertainment. The town also maintains its agricultural history through exhibits at local events and the Grant County Historical Society Museum in Elbow Lake. The nearby Pomme de Terre River adds to the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
