Cities and Towns in Lincoln County, Minnesota
Founded in 1873, Lincoln County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Lincoln County was formed from Lyon County. The city of Ivanhoe is the county seat. With FIPS code of 81, Lincoln County has a population of 5,567 and area of 537.03 square miles (1,391 km²).
List of all cities in Lincoln County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arco, MN | 56113 | 507 |
| Hendricks, MN | 56136 | 507 |
| Ivanhoe, MN | 56142 | 507 |
| Lake Benton, MN | 56149 | 507 |
| Tyler, MN | 56178 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lincoln County, Minnesota
1. Ivanhoe, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.67 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56142
- Latitude: 44.5275° N
- Longitude: 95.6983° W
City Location and History
Ivanhoe is located in the southwestern corner of Lincoln County, near the borders of South Dakota and the city of Sioux Falls, making it a strategic location for trade and commerce. The city was founded in the late 19th century, and its name is derived from Sir Walter Scott’s historical novel Ivanhoe. The area was initially settled by Scandinavian immigrants, who were drawn to the fertile land and the opportunities in agriculture. Like many other towns in the region, Ivanhoe’s economy has traditionally relied on farming, particularly the cultivation of corn, soybeans, and wheat. The construction of railroads through the area in the late 1800s further helped Ivanhoe grow, providing greater access to markets and resources. Over the years, Ivanhoe has maintained its small-town charm, and while it remains primarily agricultural, the city also serves as a hub for local government, commerce, and services in this rural part of the state. The town’s relatively remote location and peaceful setting attract people who appreciate its strong sense of community and the surrounding natural beauty of the prairie.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ivanhoe is served by the Russell-Tyler-Ruthton School District, with students attending Russell-Tyler-Ruthton High School in nearby Russell. The school provides a solid educational foundation and extracurricular opportunities in sports and arts. The city is home to a few notable landmarks, including the Ivanhoe City Park, a popular gathering place for local residents with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. Lake Ivanhoe, located just south of the city, is a popular recreational area for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities. In addition, Ivanhoe hosts the Ivanhoe Community Center, which serves as a venue for various local events and gatherings, including meetings, celebrations, and festivals. One of the main events in the city is the Ivanhoe Days festival, which features a parade, carnival, and activities that celebrate the town’s history and culture. The town’s quiet, rural setting and strong agricultural heritage give Ivanhoe a unique character and make it an appealing place to visit and live for those looking for a slower pace of life.
2. Lake Benton, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.68 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56149
- Latitude: 44.3325° N
- Longitude: 95.8694° W
City Location and History
Lake Benton is located in the southern part of Lincoln County, nestled on the shore of Lake Benton, a glacial lake that has been the centerpiece of the town’s development. The town was established in the late 1800s and was originally a hub for farming and trade. Early settlers were largely of Scandinavian and German descent, and they relied on agriculture, particularly grain farming, to build the community. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s spurred growth, providing better access to markets for the region’s crops. As the town grew, it became a popular vacation destination for those seeking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and the surrounding prairie. In the 20th century, Lake Benton became known for its recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. Today, Lake Benton is a quiet, picturesque town that still enjoys a strong agricultural economy, but it also serves as a haven for retirees and seasonal residents who appreciate its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lake Benton is part of the Lake Benton School District, with Lake Benton High School serving local students. The school provides a wide variety of programs, including academic courses, sports teams, and extracurricular activities that reflect the town’s commitment to fostering a strong educational community. Lake Benton is known for its connection to the lake itself, which is a major recreational feature of the town. Lake Benton City Park, located along the shore, offers fishing docks, a swimming beach, picnic areas, and a boat ramp. The park is a gathering place for both locals and visitors, hosting events like the annual Lake Benton Day celebration, which includes a parade, games, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The town also has a small but dedicated museum, the Lake Benton Historical Society Museum, which showcases the area’s agricultural and cultural history, including the development of the town and the importance of Lake Benton to the community. Visitors often stop to enjoy the lake’s scenic views and participate in its outdoor activities, especially during the summer months.
3. Tyler, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56178
- Latitude: 44.2578° N
- Longitude: 95.7717° W
City Location and History
Tyler is located in the central part of Lincoln County, Minnesota, and has a rich history that traces back to the late 1800s. Originally settled by Swedish and Norwegian immigrants, Tyler’s economy was initially driven by agriculture, with early settlers cultivating wheat, corn, and other crops. The city grew rapidly after the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s, which provided better access to markets and facilitated the transport of agricultural goods. Over time, Tyler became a thriving small town with a downtown area, businesses, and a strong sense of community. While farming remains central to the area’s economy, Tyler has also diversified into other industries, including light manufacturing and services. The town’s location along U.S. Highway 14, which connects it to larger cities in Minnesota and South Dakota, has also contributed to its development. Today, Tyler maintains its small-town charm and strong agricultural roots, while embracing modern amenities and services for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tyler is served by the Russell-Tyler-Ruthton School District, with students attending Russell-Tyler-Ruthton High School. The district provides a well-rounded education with a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities, including sports and arts programs. Tyler’s primary landmark is the Tyler City Park, which offers recreational facilities such as walking paths, picnic areas, and sports courts. The Tyler History Center is another notable spot, showcasing the town’s historical artifacts, including information about its founding and agricultural history. The Tyler Public Library is also a community gathering place for residents, offering books, events, and local information. One of the city’s signature events is the Tyler Harvest Festival, an annual celebration that includes a parade, local food vendors, and entertainment, marking the town’s agricultural heritage. With its combination of history, community spirit, and rural setting, Tyler offers a welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
4. Lincoln, Minnesota (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.16 square miles
- Population: Approximately 50
- Zip Codes: 56149
- Latitude: 44.3583° N
- Longitude: 95.8350° W
City Location and History
Lincoln is a small, unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Lincoln County, near the borders of both Lake Benton and Tyler. The settlement dates back to the late 1800s and was originally an agricultural community. Early settlers of Lincoln were primarily of Scandinavian descent, and the town developed around farming and the nearby Minnesota River. Although Lincoln was never officially incorporated as a city, it has maintained a rural charm and remains a quiet, close-knit area. The community has always been centered around farming and local businesses, and while the population remains small, it has endured over the years as a place for local farming families and seasonal residents. The quiet, pastoral setting of Lincoln offers a peaceful lifestyle amidst Minnesota’s beautiful countryside.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated community, Lincoln does not have its own schools or major public landmarks. However, residents are served by the Lake Benton School District and attend Lake Benton High School. Lincoln’s primary feature is its rural, agricultural setting, and it offers access to nearby lakes and parks for recreation. The area is also home to a number of historic farmsteads, many of which are passed down through generations of local families. The Lincoln County Museum in nearby Hendricks preserves the history of the region, offering exhibits on farming, local history, and pioneer life. Residents and visitors also enjoy the proximity to Lake Benton for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities. Despite its small size and limited amenities, Lincoln offers a quiet, rural lifestyle that appeals to those seeking a slower pace of life and a connection to Minnesota’s agricultural roots.
