Cities and Towns in Kanabec County, Minnesota
Founded in 1858, Kanabec County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Kanabec County was formed from Pine County. The city of Mora is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Kanabec County has a population of 16,159 and area of 524.93 square miles (1,360 km²).
List of all cities in Kanabec County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brunswick, MN | 55051 | 320 |
| Knife Lake, MN | 55051 | 320 |
| Mora, MN | 55051 | 320 |
| Ogilvie, MN | 56358 | 320 |
| Quamba, MN | 55051 | 320 |
| Warman, MN | 55051 | 320 |
Major Cities and Towns in Kanabec County, Minnesota
1. Mora, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 4.69 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,300 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 55051
- Latitude: 45.9001° N
- Longitude: 93.2773° W
City Location and History
Mora is the county seat of Kanabec County, located in central Minnesota, approximately 70 miles north of the Twin Cities. The city was founded in 1857 and named after Mora, Sweden, reflecting the large number of Swedish immigrants who settled in the area. The city grew rapidly in the late 19th century, thanks to the expansion of the railroad, which helped to develop Mora as a commercial and trading center for surrounding agricultural communities. The economy was initially driven by farming, logging, and the railroad industry, with Swedish settlers playing a prominent role in its early development. As time went on, Mora became a hub for local government and services, and it remains the economic and cultural center of Kanabec County. Today, the city retains its rural charm but has diversified its economy to include retail, tourism, and manufacturing, serving as a gateway for visitors exploring the scenic landscapes of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mora is served by the Mora Public School District, which includes Mora High School, known for its strong athletic programs and academic achievements. The city also has several parks and recreational facilities, including the Mora City Park and the nearby Knife Lake, which offer a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. Notable landmarks in Mora include the Kanabec County Historical Society Museum, which preserves the area’s Swedish immigrant heritage, and the Mora Public Library, a popular community gathering space. Mora is also known for its annual “Mora Municipal Airport Fly-In,” which brings aviation enthusiasts to the city, and the Mora VFW Post 7050, which hosts events and provides a space for veterans and the community to connect. The nearby Mille Lacs Wildlife Management Area offers abundant opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
2. Ogilvie, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.82 square miles
- Population: Approximately 550 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56358
- Latitude: 45.7560° N
- Longitude: 93.0707° W
City Location and History
Ogilvie is located in the southeastern corner of Kanabec County, about 25 miles south of Mora. The town was established in the 1880s, and it is named after its first settler, J.P. Ogilvie, a businessman who opened the first general store in the area. Ogilvie developed as a railroad town, with the arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the late 19th century fueling its growth. The town became a key stop for farmers shipping their goods to larger markets. Over time, the town shifted from being a center for trade and agriculture to becoming a quiet, rural residential community. Despite its small size, Ogilvie remains a close-knit town with a focus on community events and local traditions, making it an attractive option for those looking for a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ogilvie is served by the Ogilvie Public School District, which includes the Ogilvie High School. The school is known for its academic achievements, as well as its strong extracurricular programs in sports and arts. Ogilvie has a few local landmarks, such as the historical railroad depot, which showcases the town’s railroad heritage. The town also boasts several parks, including the Ogilvie City Park, where residents gather for local events and enjoy picnicking and sports. One of the town’s main features is its proximity to the Snake River, which offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and canoeing. Ogilvie hosts an annual “Ogilvie Family Fun Day,” a festival that brings together the community for parades, games, food, and entertainment, celebrating the town’s agricultural and railroad history.
3. Braham, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.99 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,700 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 55006
- Latitude: 45.5775° N
- Longitude: 93.2086° W
City Location and History
Braham is located in the southwestern part of Kanabec County, about 20 miles south of Mora. The city was founded in the 1870s by Swedish immigrants, and it has retained a strong Scandinavian heritage, which is evident in its cultural events and traditions. Braham was initially an agricultural community, with settlers focusing on farming and logging. Over time, it became known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World” due to the large number of strawberry farms that surrounded the town. The railroad also played a significant role in Braham’s growth, connecting it to other parts of the state and facilitating trade. While the strawberry industry has since declined, the town’s agricultural roots remain central to its identity. Braham is known for its small-town atmosphere and the sense of community that its residents cherish. The town also enjoys a quiet rural setting, making it a desirable place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle in central Minnesota.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Braham is served by the Braham Area School District, which includes Braham High School, known for its strong academic performance and sports programs. The town also has several parks, including Braham City Park, which offers baseball fields, picnic areas, and a playground. A major landmark is the Braham Historical Museum, which celebrates the town’s Swedish heritage and its history as a strawberry farming center. Another well-known feature of Braham is its annual “Strawberry Festival,” which honors the town’s agricultural roots with a parade, live music, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The nearby Sand Dunes State Forest offers outdoor enthusiasts hiking, camping, and wildlife watching opportunities, further enhancing the recreational appeal of Braham.
4. Rock Creek, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.51 square miles
- Population: Approximately 350 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 55067
- Latitude: 45.6847° N
- Longitude: 93.2354° W
City Location and History
Rock Creek is located in the northeastern part of Kanabec County, near the border with Pine County, approximately 50 miles north of the Twin Cities. Originally established in the 19th century as a small settlement along the Snake River, the area became a hub for agriculture and forestry. The name “Rock Creek” comes from the creek that runs through the area, which was a vital water source for early settlers. Over time, the community developed into a quiet, rural town, with a small but steady population. The arrival of the railroad helped the town grow in the late 1800s, but much of the town’s economy remained based on farming, forestry, and fishing. Today, Rock Creek is a peaceful town that serves as a gateway to the greater outdoor recreation areas in the region, including the Snake River and nearby forests.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rock Creek is part of the East Central School District, with the nearest school options being in the nearby town of Sandstone. Rock Creek itself has limited local amenities, but its proximity to nearby larger towns means residents have access to services and schools. Notable landmarks include the Rock Creek Lutheran Church, which serves as a central gathering place for the community. The nearby Snake River offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Rock Creek also boasts several local parks, including the Rock Creek Park, which features walking trails and picnic areas, making it an appealing spot for outdoor activities. The area is also known for its access to the nearby St. Croix State Park, which is a popular location for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
