Cities and Towns in Morrison County, Minnesota
Founded in 1856, Morrison County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Morrison County was formed from Benton County. The city of Little Falls is the county seat. With FIPS code of 97, Morrison County has a population of 33,992 and area of 1,124.50 square miles (2,912 km²).
List of all cities in Morrison County, MN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Bowlus, MN | 56314 | 320 |
Buckman, MN | 56317 | 320 |
Clough, MN | 56475 | 320 |
Cushing, MN | 56443 | 218 |
Flensburg, MN | 56328 | 320 |
Genola, MN | 56364 | 320 |
Hillman, MN | 56338 | 320 |
Lastrup, MN | 56344 | 320 |
Little Falls, MN | 56345 | 320 |
Motley, MN | 56466 | 218 |
Parker, MN | 56475 | 320 |
Pierz, MN | 56364 | 320 |
Randall, MN | 56475 | 320 |
Royalton, MN | 56373 | 320 |
Swanville, MN | 56382 | 320 |
Upsala, MN | 56384 | 320 |
Major Cities and Towns in Morrison County, Minnesota
1. Little Falls
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 7.82 square miles
- Population: 9,000 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56345
- Latitude: 45.9776° N
- Longitude: 94.3629° W
City Location and History:
Little Falls, the county seat of Morrison County, is located in central Minnesota, about 25 miles north of the state capital, St. Cloud. The city was founded in 1848 by settlers along the banks of the Mississippi River, and it was named after the “little falls” of the Mississippi River near the town, which provided an ideal location for early mills. Little Falls quickly became an important trading post and industrial hub in the region, benefiting from both its river access and proximity to key transportation routes, including the railroad. The town’s economy in the 19th century was rooted in logging, milling, and agriculture. Little Falls was home to several sawmills and flour mills, which helped it grow into a significant regional center. In the early 20th century, the town’s economy diversified into manufacturing and retail, but the area’s logging history is still celebrated today. Little Falls became a city in 1872, and over time, it has expanded into a modern community that still honors its historical roots. Today, the city is known for its mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and historic architecture.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Little Falls is served by the Little Falls Community Schools district, which includes Little Falls Senior High School, Lindbergh Elementary School, and the Northstar Academy. The district is well-regarded for its academic programs, extracurricular activities, and emphasis on community involvement. Major landmarks in Little Falls include the Charles A. Lindbergh House and Museum, dedicated to the famous aviator, who was born in the city. The museum celebrates Lindbergh’s early life and his groundbreaking transatlantic flight. Another notable landmark is the historic Pelican Rapids, which are part of the city’s natural beauty. Little Falls also has the Minnesota Fishing Museum, showcasing the state’s rich fishing history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Morrison County Historical Society operates several historic sites, including the Little Falls Depot, a former railroad station. The city has a vibrant arts scene, highlighted by the annual Little Falls Arts and Crafts Fair. Residents and visitors also enjoy a range of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and kayaking along the Mississippi River. Little Falls is a charming blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.
2. Pierz
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.13 square miles
- Population: 1,500 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56364
- Latitude: 45.9906° N
- Longitude: 94.4702° W
City Location and History:
Pierz is located in the northeastern part of Morrison County, approximately 10 miles northeast of Little Falls. The town was settled in the late 1800s, and it grew steadily with the development of the region’s agricultural economy. Named after a French-Canadian settler, Pierz became a center for farming and trade. Its location along the Soo Line Railroad in the late 19th century helped the town prosper, making it an important hub for shipping grain and other agricultural products. Pierz has always been a small community with a strong sense of local identity and pride. The town’s residents primarily worked in agriculture, but over the years, some manufacturing and service-based industries have also developed in the area. Despite its relatively small population, Pierz is an active town that celebrates its rural roots while embracing modern amenities. Today, Pierz retains its close-knit, small-town atmosphere and serves as a regional center for the surrounding farming communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Pierz is served by the Pierz Public Schools district, which includes Pierz Healy High School and the Pierz Elementary School. The school district offers a range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports for students. Pierz is home to several important landmarks, including the Pierz City Park, which provides a great space for picnicking, sports, and outdoor activities. The town also celebrates its agricultural history with events like the annual Pierz Community Festival, which features a parade, carnival, and live music. The Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church is another historic and cultural landmark in the town, reflecting the strong Catholic heritage of the community. Pierz also hosts the annual Pierz Polka Fest, which attracts visitors with its live polka bands and local food. The city’s quaint downtown area, with local businesses and cafes, is a reflection of its tight-knit community. Pierz offers a charming, peaceful environment that provides a great quality of life for those who live and work there.
3. Motley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.39 square miles
- Population: 700 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56466
- Latitude: 46.2487° N
- Longitude: 94.4386° W
City Location and History:
Motley is a small city located in the central part of Morrison County, about 15 miles west of Little Falls. It was established in the late 1800s and named after the nearby Motley family, early settlers in the region. The town grew rapidly after the arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century, as it became a key shipping point for local timber and agricultural products. The logging industry was an essential part of the area’s economy in the early years, and it is still an important part of the town’s heritage today. Over time, as the logging industry waned, Motley’s economy diversified into agriculture, retail, and small businesses. Today, the town retains its rural atmosphere while offering modern amenities to residents and visitors. The city serves as a small yet vibrant community in Morrison County, with a strong sense of local pride and a commitment to preserving its history.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Motley is served by the Motley-Staples School District, which includes the Motley-Staples High School and local elementary schools. The district provides a solid education with an emphasis on community involvement and student success. Major landmarks in Motley include the Motley City Park, which offers a range of recreational activities such as picnicking, walking, and sports. The park is a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The Motley Historical Society operates a small museum in the area, preserving the town’s history and logging heritage. One of the town’s major events is the annual Motley “Do It Up” Days, which includes a parade, carnival, and other local festivities. The event highlights the community’s strong sense of pride and offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Motley is also known for its picturesque natural surroundings, which include nearby lakes and forests, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to visit or settle. Its proximity to larger cities like Little Falls and Staples adds to its appeal, offering a quiet place to live with access to nearby amenities.
4. Cushing
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.89 square miles
- Population: 200 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56443
- Latitude: 46.1517° N
- Longitude: 94.7630° W
City Location and History:
Cushing is a small town located in the southwestern part of Morrison County, about 15 miles south of Little Falls. The town was originally founded in the late 19th century, and it developed as an agricultural center for the surrounding rural area. Named after a local family, Cushing was a railroad town, with the Soo Line Railroad playing an important role in transporting agricultural goods from the region. However, as the railroad industry declined, Cushing became a quieter, more isolated town with a strong emphasis on farming and rural life. Despite its small size, Cushing has a rich history of farming and local community events, and it continues to serve as a hub for surrounding agricultural businesses. Over the years, the population has remained small, but the town has preserved its sense of rural charm and tight-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Cushing does not have its own school district, and children in the area attend schools in nearby Little Falls or other neighboring towns. The town’s landmarks are primarily centered around its rural and agricultural roots. The Cushing City Park is the focal point for outdoor activities, with green space for picnicking and local gatherings. One of the highlights of the year for the town is the annual Cushing Days celebration, which brings together locals for a parade, food, and entertainment. Though small, the town’s sense of community is evident in its well-attended events and local organizations. Cushing’s quiet, rural atmosphere, surrounded by farmland and forests, makes it an ideal place for those seeking a slower pace of life while still being connected to the larger cities like Little Falls and Staples.
5. Randall
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.05 square miles
- Population: 600 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56475
- Latitude: 46.1760° N
- Longitude: 94.4446° W
City Location and History:
Randall is a small town located in the southeastern part of Morrison County, about 20 miles southeast of Little Falls. The town was established in the late 1800s and grew as a railroad town, benefiting from its proximity to the Northern Pacific Railway. Like many towns in the region, Randall’s early economy was based on agriculture and lumber. Its location near the railroad lines allowed farmers to transport goods efficiently, making it a vital point for trade and commerce in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s small population has remained relatively stable over the years, and while agriculture is still central to the local economy, Randall is increasingly becoming a residential community for people commuting to larger cities for work. The town remains a charming place with a strong local community and a focus on outdoor living.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Randall is served by the Motley-Staples School District, and students in the area attend schools in nearby Motley or Staples. Major landmarks in Randall include the Randall City Park, which offers a variety of recreational opportunities for residents, such as picnicking, sports, and walking paths. The town also celebrates its agricultural heritage with events like the annual Randall Fun Days, which feature a parade, games, and local food. While Randall is a small town, it is home to a friendly and active community that enjoys coming together to celebrate local traditions. The town’s natural beauty, with nearby lakes and forests, provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy nature and a quieter lifestyle.