Cities and Towns in Lac qui Parle County, Minnesota
Founded in 1871, Lac qui Parle County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Lac qui Parle County was formed from Redwood County. The city of Madison is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Lac qui Parle County has a population of 6,684 and area of 764.87 square miles (1,981 km²).
List of all cities in Lac qui Parle County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bellingham, MN | 56212 | 320 |
| Boyd, MN | 56218 | 320 |
| Dawson, MN | 56232 | 320 |
| Louisburg, MN | 56256 | 320 |
| Madison, MN | 56256 | 320 |
| Marietta, MN | 56257 | 320 |
| Nassau, MN | 56257 | 320 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lac qui Parle County, Minnesota
1. Montevideo, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 3.39 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56265
- Latitude: 44.9517° N
- Longitude: 95.7161° W
City Location and History
Montevideo is the county seat of Lac qui Parle County and the largest city in the county, located in the southwestern part of Minnesota. The city is situated on the banks of the Minnesota River, and its name comes from the Montevideo, Uruguay, chosen by early settlers who were originally from that city. Montevideo’s history dates back to the mid-19th century when it was settled by European immigrants, particularly from Norway and Denmark. The city became a prominent trade and transportation hub due to its location on the river and later became a key point for the railroad expansion in the region. Montevideo was officially incorporated in 1870 and grew rapidly, especially with the development of agriculture and industry in the surrounding area. Today, the city’s economy is still largely driven by agriculture, but it also has a growing service sector, including health care and education. Montevideo is a vital center for commerce in the region and serves as the main urban hub for the smaller surrounding communities in Lac qui Parle County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Montevideo is served by the Montevideo Public Schools, which includes Montevideo High School, known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, especially in music, sports, and agriculture. One of the major landmarks in Montevideo is the Chippewa County Museum, which showcases the area’s rich history, including Native American culture, the early settler period, and the agricultural roots of the region. Another key landmark is the Minnesota River, which offers recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and boating. The Montevideo Municipal Airport is also a notable feature, serving as a hub for regional air travel. The city hosts several annual events, including the Montevideo Arts & Crafts Festival and the County Fair, which celebrate the area’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. The Lac qui Parle State Park, located just to the north, is a beautiful natural area known for its birdwatching, hiking trails, and picturesque scenery.
2. Madison, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.29 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56256
- Latitude: 44.9542° N
- Longitude: 95.9586° W
City Location and History
Madison is located in the central part of Lac qui Parle County, situated about 15 miles south of the Minnesota River. The city was originally settled in the 1860s, primarily by Swedish immigrants, and it quickly became an agricultural community. The town was named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. Madison was officially incorporated in 1872 and soon became an important stop along the railroad, facilitating the transportation of grain and livestock. The town developed into an agricultural hub, with farming being the primary industry, particularly grain production and dairy farming. Madison also became known for its picturesque setting along the Lac qui Parle River, which runs through the area. While its population has remained relatively small, Madison continues to be a focal point for the surrounding farming community and has seen growth in industries related to agriculture, including food processing and manufacturing. The town’s rural charm and close-knit community make it an appealing place to live and visit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Madison is served by the Madison Public Schools district, with Madison High School being the primary educational institution. The school district offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including athletics and arts, with a focus on preparing students for careers in agriculture and local industries. Major landmarks in Madison include the Lac qui Parle County Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s Swedish heritage, its agricultural history, and the area’s role in the development of Minnesota. The Madison City Park is a central recreational spot with picnic areas, sports fields, and a playground. The Lac qui Parle River offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching, especially near the Lac qui Parle State Park, which is located just outside of town. The town is also home to the Madison Golf Club, providing another recreational option for residents and visitors.
3. Appleton, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 2.50 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56208
- Latitude: 44.9503° N
- Longitude: 95.6250° W
City Location and History
Appleton is located in the eastern part of Lac qui Parle County, just to the south of the Minnesota River. The city was founded in the early 1870s and named after the nearby Appleton, Wisconsin. It was initially established as a farming community, and the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s contributed significantly to its early growth. Agriculture, particularly corn and wheat production, played a central role in the development of Appleton, which soon became a hub for trade and commerce in the region. The town was officially incorporated in 1881 and has maintained a small, tight-knit community ever since. Over the years, Appleton’s economy has diversified, but farming remains a cornerstone of the town’s identity. In addition to its agricultural base, Appleton has seen some growth in industries like healthcare, retail, and education, and it continues to serve as a regional center for rural residents in Lac qui Parle County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Appleton is served by the Appleton Public Schools district, with Appleton High School being the focal point for secondary education. The district offers a wide range of programs, including vocational training in areas like agriculture, as well as sports and arts programs. One of the key landmarks in Appleton is the Appleton City Park, which includes a community swimming pool, picnic areas, and sports courts. The Appleton Historical Museum is another important site, highlighting the town’s agricultural history, its early settlers, and its connection to the larger region of western Minnesota. Appleton is also located near the Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area, which is known for its birdwatching opportunities and abundant wildlife. The town hosts an annual Appleton Harvest Festival, celebrating the local community and agriculture with parades, local food, and entertainment.
4. Cyrus, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.69 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56323
- Latitude: 45.1000° N
- Longitude: 95.8281° W
City Location and History
Cyrus is a small town located in the western part of Lac qui Parle County. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Cyrus Northrop, a prominent educator in Minnesota. Like many towns in the region, Cyrus grew up as an agricultural community, with early settlers primarily engaged in farming. The town was incorporated in 1904 and remained a small but significant community for local trade. Over the years, Cyrus has maintained a rural character, with its economy largely based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of grains like corn, soybeans, and wheat. The town is also located near the Chippewa River, which provides some natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Although the population has remained small, Cyrus continues to serve as a quiet, rural retreat for those who enjoy a peaceful lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cyrus is part of the Benson Public Schools district, with students from Cyrus attending Benson High School. The district provides a variety of educational programs, including vocational training, athletics, and arts programs. Major landmarks in Cyrus include its small but active Cyrus City Park, which offers a picnic area, playground, and sports fields for local families and visitors. The surrounding rural area is primarily farmland, providing scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. While the town itself is quiet, it’s a short drive from larger towns like Madison and Montevideo, offering access to additional amenities, schools, and cultural events. Cyrus has retained much of its historical charm, with a few historic buildings and homes from its founding days, providing a glimpse into the area’s agricultural past.
5. Regal, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.15 square miles
- Population: Approximately 70 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56280
- Latitude: 44.9824° N
- Longitude: 95.9321° W
City Location and History
Regal is a small town located in the northern part of Lac qui Parle County. It was originally settled in the late 19th century as part of the larger agricultural expansion in the area. The town developed around the farming community and was a small center for local trade and commerce. Regal’s history is closely tied to the agricultural industry, which remains the town’s primary economic activity today. The town was officially incorporated in 1916 but has remained one of the smallest communities in the county. Despite its size, Regal is a peaceful, rural location that offers a quiet life amidst the expansive fields and farmland that dominate the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Regal is part of the Benson Public Schools district, with students from Regal attending Benson High School. The district offers various educational programs, as well as athletic and extracurricular opportunities. Regal itself has limited commercial landmarks, but the surrounding countryside offers a wealth of natural beauty. The town is located close to the Chippewa River, which provides some recreational opportunities for local residents, especially for fishing and birdwatching. The town’s proximity to Benson and other larger communities makes Regal a good location for those seeking a rural lifestyle while remaining close to more urban amenities.