Cities and Towns in Pope County, Minnesota
Founded in 1862, Pope County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Pope County was formed from Pierce County, Cass County, and unorganized Territory. The city of Glenwood is the county seat. With FIPS code of 121, Pope County has a population of 11,403 and area of 670.14 square miles (1,736 km²).
List of all cities in Pope County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cyrus, MN | 56323 | 320 |
| Glenwood, MN | 56334 | 320 |
| Lowry, MN | 56349 | 320 |
| Sedan, MN | 56334 | 320 |
| Starbuck, MN | 56381 | 320 |
| Terrace, MN | 56334 | 320 |
| Villard, MN | 56385 | 320 |
Major Cities and Towns in Pope County, Minnesota
Pope County is located in the west-central part of Minnesota. With an area of 600 square miles, it offers a mix of scenic lakes, rivers, and fertile farmland. The county seat, Glenwood, is home to a blend of historical landmarks, recreational opportunities, and local businesses. Other significant towns and cities in Pope County, such as Starbuck and Springfield, contribute to its rural charm while offering modern amenities. The county is known for its outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking, thanks to its proximity to Lake Minnewaska. The region’s history is marked by early settlement, agricultural development, and strong community ties.
1. Glenwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: 2,640 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56334
- Latitude: 45.5896° N
- Longitude: 95.3961° W
Location and History:
Glenwood, the county seat of Pope County, is situated along the eastern shore of Lake Minnewaska, about 125 miles northwest of Minneapolis. Originally settled in the late 1800s, Glenwood grew rapidly as a center for agriculture, trade, and transportation. It was officially incorporated in 1881. The town’s location near the lake made it a popular destination for tourism, particularly in the summer, and it soon became known for its fishing, boating, and resort culture. Historically, the city was influenced by the railroad industry, which brought settlers to the area and enabled the shipment of agricultural products to markets across the country.
Today, Glenwood has evolved into a quaint lakeside town that maintains its historical charm while catering to residents and tourists alike. The city has experienced steady growth, particularly in its retail and service sectors, thanks to the surrounding lake and its location at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 12 and Minnesota State Highway 55.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Glenwood is part of the Glenwood School District and is home to Glenwood High School, Glenwood Middle School, and Minnewaska Area Elementary School. The district offers a variety of educational programs, sports, and extracurricular activities. The area’s emphasis on outdoor education and local community engagement is notable, with schools encouraging environmental awareness through field trips and nature studies.
Glenwood boasts a variety of landmarks, including Lake Minnewaska, which is the central attraction for the community. The lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, drawing visitors year-round. Other notable landmarks include the Pope County Museum, which showcases the area’s history, and the Glenwood City Park, which offers walking trails, a campground, and beautiful views of the lake. The Glenwood Theatre offers year-round entertainment, including plays, concerts, and film screenings. The Minnewaska Scenic Byway, which runs along the lake, is another highlight, providing scenic views and access to nearby parks and wildlife areas.
2. Starbuck
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 1,350 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56381
- Latitude: 45.5611° N
- Longitude: 95.4414° W
Location and History:
Starbuck is located along the western shore of Lake Minnewaska in Pope County. The town was founded in 1870 and was named after a character in Herman Melville’s famous novel, Moby-Dick. It initially developed as a farming and resort town, capitalizing on its scenic location by the lake. The town grew rapidly in the early 20th century as a popular summer resort destination, especially among Minneapolis residents looking to escape the city heat.
During the 20th century, Starbuck’s economy shifted as it became more focused on agriculture and local services. Despite this, the town’s scenic location continued to attract visitors and became a hub for outdoor recreation. Today, Starbuck is a quiet community that remains strongly tied to farming, but its tourism industry, centered around Lake Minnewaska, continues to play an important role in the town’s economy. Its small size and historical character make it a charming destination for those seeking peace and solitude in a lakeside setting.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Starbuck is part of the Minnewaska Area School District, which serves students in the surrounding region. Starbuck Elementary School is the primary educational institution in the city, while older students attend Minnewaska Area High School in nearby Glenwood. The district offers various educational programs, including music, sports, and environmental studies.
Starbuck’s most notable landmark is Lake Minnewaska, which is a major recreational spot for residents and tourists. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking along the Minnewaska State Trail, which offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Glacial Lakes State Park, located just outside of Starbuck, is another key natural area, offering miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and wildlife observation. The Starbuck Depot Museum, housed in a historic railroad depot, is also a must-see for history buffs, providing insight into the town’s development and the role of the railroad in shaping its economy.
3. Springfield Township
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 36.6 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56334 (Glenwood)
- Latitude: 45.5956° N
- Longitude: 95.3961° W
Location and History:
Springfield Township, though not an incorporated city, is a significant area within Pope County. Located in the southeastern part of the county, Springfield Township is an agricultural community that is primarily composed of farms, small businesses, and residential areas. The township’s proximity to Glenwood gives it a rural yet connected feel, with residents often commuting to the city for work and other services. The township was established in the 1850s, with settlers initially coming from the eastern United States, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources.
Like many rural communities in the area, Springfield has seen a decline in population as more people have moved to urban areas, but it remains a picturesque example of Minnesota’s farming heritage. The area’s history is marked by a strong sense of community, and while the township doesn’t have the amenities of a larger city, its agricultural roots continue to define its character.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Education in Springfield Township is provided through the Minnewaska Area School District, with students attending the same schools as those in the neighboring cities. There are no dedicated schools within the township itself, so children attend Minnewaska Area High School or Glenwood Area Elementary.
Springfield Township is largely residential and agricultural, but the nearby Lake Minnewaska offers residents ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Many of the township’s residents enjoy boating and fishing on the lake, and nearby parks such as Glacial Lakes State Park provide hiking and camping opportunities. Springfield is also known for its proximity to the historic Pope County Museum, where visitors can learn more about the early settlers and agricultural history of the region. The township is primarily rural but offers a peaceful, country setting for those who enjoy a slower pace of life, with strong ties to its agricultural traditions.
