Cities and Towns in Pennington County, Minnesota
Founded in 1910, Pennington County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Pennington County was formed from Red Lake County. The city of Thief River Falls is the county seat. With FIPS code of 113, Pennington County has a population of 13,780 and area of 616.54 square miles (1,597 km²).
List of all cities in Pennington County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Erie, MN | 56725 | 218 |
| Goodridge, MN | 56725 | 218 |
| Rosewood, MN | 56701 | 218 |
| Saint Hilaire, MN | 56754 | 218 |
| Thief River Falls, MN | 56701 | 218 |
Major Cities and Towns in Pennington County, Minnesota
1. Thief River Falls
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 17.98 square miles
- Population: 8,500 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56701
- Latitude: 48.1155° N
- Longitude: 96.1834° W
City Location and History:
Thief River Falls is located in the northeastern part of Pennington County, Minnesota. It was named after the Thief River, which was originally a site of conflicts between Native American tribes over trade goods. The city was founded in the 19th century, with the arrival of settlers attracted by the fertile farmland and proximity to the river. The falls themselves were an important feature, although they were later submerged due to a dam. Established as a town in the late 1800s, Thief River Falls quickly grew thanks to its strategic location along the Red Lake River and the construction of the railroad. The city’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, but it became nationally recognized as a hub for snowmobile manufacturing with the establishment of Arctic Cat in the 1960s. Today, Thief River Falls serves as the county seat and remains a center of commerce and industry in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
The city is home to Thief River Falls High School, as well as Northland Community and Technical College, offering both high school and post-secondary educational opportunities. For cultural and recreational activities, Thief River Falls boasts several attractions, including the Pennington County Museum, which chronicles the area’s history. Key landmarks include the St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, the historic downtown district with its preserved 19th-century architecture, and the Thief River Falls Dam, a symbol of the area’s industrial past. The nearby Seven Clans Casino provides additional entertainment for residents and visitors.
2. Goodridge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.76 square miles
- Population: 179 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56725
- Latitude: 48.1910° N
- Longitude: 96.0144° W
City Location and History:
Goodridge, located in the southern part of Pennington County, was founded in the early 20th century as an agricultural settlement. Its population grew steadily through the mid-1900s due to the fertile farmland surrounding it. Like many small rural towns, Goodridge has seen population decline in recent years as people move to larger cities for work opportunities. Despite this, the town maintains a strong sense of community. The name “Goodridge” comes from the Goodridge family, early settlers in the area who were influential in the town’s development. Agriculture, especially wheat farming, has always been at the core of Goodridge’s economy. While the town itself is small, its proximity to larger cities like Thief River Falls has helped preserve its importance as a rural community.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Goodridge is part of the Goodridge Public School District, serving the educational needs of the area’s youth. The Goodridge School is the focal point for local activities and sports. Key landmarks include the Goodridge City Park, which hosts annual community events and provides a space for outdoor activities. The rural landscape surrounding Goodridge offers scenic views of Minnesota’s agricultural heartland. The Goodridge General Store remains a central part of town life, offering goods and supplies for residents and visitors. The simplicity of life here, combined with the beauty of the surrounding farmlands, makes Goodridge a place of quiet charm.
3. Kelliher
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.23 square miles
- Population: 411 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56650
- Latitude: 47.9285° N
- Longitude: 94.6376° W
City Location and History:
Kelliher is a small town located in the northeastern part of Pennington County, Minnesota, near Upper Red Lake. The town’s origins trace back to the early 20th century, with settlers initially drawn to the area for its abundant timber resources. Kelliher’s location along the rail lines facilitated the growth of the logging industry, which was central to its economy in the early days. However, as timber resources were depleted, the economy shifted toward agriculture and tourism. Over the years, Kelliher has remained a quiet, rural community, with a slightly growing population in recent decades, largely due to its proximity to the popular Upper Red Lake, known for recreational fishing. Today, the town is best known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, which continue to play a central role in its identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Kelliher is served by the Kelliher School District, which provides education to local children from kindergarten through high school. The Kelliher School acts as the hub for local events, with athletic activities and social gatherings often taking place there. Kelliher’s most notable landmark is Upper Red Lake, a world-renowned fishing destination, particularly for walleye and northern pike. This lake attracts tourists year-round for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the Red Lake Indian Reservation, located just to the north, is a significant cultural landmark, home to the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. Kelliher’s charm lies in its access to both natural beauty and a strong sense of community.
4. Saint Hilaire
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.85 square miles
- Population: 385 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56754
- Latitude: 48.0042° N
- Longitude: 95.9006° W
City Location and History:
Saint Hilaire is located just southeast of Thief River Falls, in the southern part of Pennington County. The town was established in the early 1900s and named after the French Catholic priest, St. Hilaire. Originally a farming community, Saint Hilaire’s early growth was tied to the agricultural industry, as settlers from Scandinavia and other European countries settled the land. Though small in size, the town grew gradually during the 20th century. Saint Hilaire remains a close-knit rural community, known for its scenic landscapes and agricultural heritage. In recent years, the town has experienced a slight increase in population, as people seek to live in a quieter, more rural environment while remaining close to the amenities and opportunities in Thief River Falls.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Saint Hilaire is served by the Thief River Falls School District, which includes the nearby Thief River Falls High School. Although Saint Hilaire itself does not have a dedicated high school, its residents attend the larger district schools. Notable landmarks include the St. Hilaire Church, a historical building that anchors the town’s Catholic community. The surrounding rural landscape, including the Red Lake River, offers residents a peaceful setting and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating. Saint Hilaire’s small-town charm and strong community ties make it an attractive place for people looking for a rural lifestyle close to Thief River Falls.
5. Redby
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.22 square miles
- Population: 532 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56670
- Latitude: 47.7510° N
- Longitude: 94.9256° W
City Location and History:
Redby is located in the northwestern corner of Pennington County, Minnesota, and is part of the Red Lake Indian Reservation. The community is home to the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians and serves as an important cultural and administrative center for the tribe. Redby was originally established as a trading post and has grown into a small but vibrant community. The history of Redby is deeply intertwined with the Red Lake Band, whose members have lived in the area for centuries. Over time, the town became a focal point for local governance, economic activity, and cultural events for the tribe. The Red Lake Nation continues to play an important role in the region’s economy, and Redby remains a symbol of the tribe’s resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Redby is served by the Red Lake School District, which includes educational institutions like the Red Lake High School and Red Lake Middle School. The Red Lake Nation also operates cultural programs and events that help preserve and promote Native American traditions. The most significant landmark in Redby is the Red Lake Band’s headquarters, which includes various government buildings and cultural institutions. The nearby Red Lake offers ample fishing and recreational opportunities, and the area’s natural beauty attracts visitors year-round. The community is proud of its rich cultural heritage, and local events such as powwows and festivals celebrate Native American traditions.
