Cities and Towns in Watonwan County, Minnesota
Founded in 1860, Watonwan County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Watonwan County was formed from Brown County. The city of St. James is the county seat. With FIPS code of 165, Watonwan County has a population of 11,135 and area of 434.51 square miles (1,125 km²).
List of all cities in Watonwan County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Butterfield, MN | 56120 | 507 |
| Darfur, MN | 56022 | 507 |
| La Salle, MN | 56056 | 507 |
| Lewisville, MN | 56060 | 507 |
| Madelia, MN | 56062 | 507 |
| Odin, MN | 56160 | 507 |
| Saint James, MN | 56081 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Watonwan County, Minnesota
Watonwan County, located in the south-central part of Minnesota, is known for its rich agricultural heritage, small communities, and scenic rural landscapes. The county offers a blend of farming traditions and modern amenities, with several cities and towns that each reflect the region’s history and development. Below are details about the major cities and towns in Watonwan County.
1. St. James
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 4.01 square miles
- Population: 4,400 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56081
- Latitude: 43.9791° N
- Longitude: 94.6186° W
Location and History:
St. James is the county seat of Watonwan County, located in the southwestern part of the county. The city was first settled in the mid-19th century and was incorporated in 1870. Originally, the area was a stopping point along the Minnesota River, making it an essential location for early settlers. The city’s economy initially thrived on agriculture, particularly grain and livestock, and it continued to grow with the construction of the Minnesota Central Railroad in the late 1800s. This made St. James a hub for shipping goods and people, contributing to its development.
The town was named after Saint James, the patron saint of fishermen, likely due to the presence of early European settlers of Catholic faith. Over the years, St. James has built upon its agricultural foundation and diversified into various industries, with a focus on food processing and manufacturing. While it is a small city, St. James has managed to preserve much of its historical charm, with a rich architectural heritage and a variety of parks and recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
St. James is served by the St. James Public School District, with St. James High School and St. James Middle School offering a range of educational opportunities. Notable landmarks include the Watonwan County Courthouse, an impressive historic building that anchors the city’s central district, and the St. James Historical Society Museum, which preserves the city’s history. Outdoor recreation is plentiful, with Heritage Park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a baseball field, while Lakeside Park provides access to the nearby St. James Lake for fishing and boating. The St. James Golf Club is another popular local spot, offering a picturesque course for golf enthusiasts.
2. Madelia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.52 square miles
- Population: 2,200 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56062
- Latitude: 44.0176° N
- Longitude: 94.2791° W
Location and History:
Madelia is located in the southeastern part of Watonwan County, nestled along the banks of the Watonwan River. Established in 1869, Madelia has a deep-rooted history in agriculture and industry, as early settlers took advantage of the fertile soil in the area. The town was originally founded as a trading post and grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad. Agriculture, particularly grain farming, was the backbone of Madelia’s economy, and over time, it became a key center for grain milling and livestock processing.
The town was named after Madelia, the daughter of a prominent local merchant. In the early 20th century, Madelia experienced significant growth, with new infrastructure, such as schools and businesses, adding to the town’s charm. The population reached its peak in the 1940s, and though it has since leveled off, Madelia remains a small but vibrant community with a rich agricultural legacy. In recent decades, the town has worked to revitalize its economy through local business development, tourism, and promoting its historical heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Madelia is served by the Madelia School District, with Madelia High School and Madelia Middle/High School offering a comprehensive educational experience. The town is known for its commitment to quality education and community engagement. Key landmarks in Madelia include the Madelia Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s early history, and the Watonwan County Veterans Memorial. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Madelia City Park, which provides playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The Watson Park offers scenic walking trails along the river and opportunities for birdwatching. Additionally, Madelia’s Historic Downtown District is home to charming shops, cafes, and buildings dating back to the early 20th century, providing a glimpse into the past.
3. Lewisville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.43 square miles
- Population: 250 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56060
- Latitude: 43.8833° N
- Longitude: 94.3125° W
Location and History:
Lewisville is a small city in the northeastern part of Watonwan County, originally established as a railroad town in the late 19th century. It was incorporated in 1895, and like many towns in the region, its development was initially tied to the agricultural economy, with settlers taking advantage of the fertile farmland in the area. Over the years, Lewisville grew due to its proximity to both Madelia and St. James, which helped provide access to trade routes and infrastructure.
The town was named after Lewis Wilton, an early settler and businessman in the area. Over time, Lewisville has remained a small rural community with a strong agricultural base, and its population has remained relatively stable. The town’s economy continues to be driven by farming, with many residents working in nearby agricultural businesses. Despite its size, Lewisville maintains a tight-knit community, and its rural location offers a peaceful, quiet lifestyle to its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Lewisville is served by the Madelia School District, so children typically attend schools in nearby Madelia. The town’s landmarks include the Lewisville Park, which offers green space, walking paths, and sports facilities. The Lewisville Community Center serves as a hub for local events and gatherings, and the surrounding farmland offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities. While small in size, Lewisville is a great example of a rural Minnesota town that maintains its agricultural roots while providing a peaceful living environment.
4. Ormsby
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.46 square miles
- Population: 100 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56162
- Latitude: 43.8969° N
- Longitude: 94.4742° W
Location and History:
Ormsby is one of the smallest cities in Watonwan County, located in the southwestern corner of the county. Established in the late 19th century, the town was originally a farming community. Like many other small towns in Minnesota, Ormsby’s economy was built around agriculture, particularly grain farming and livestock. The town was incorporated in 1881 and grew slowly over the years. Its small size and rural nature have kept Ormsby as a close-knit community, where residents work together to maintain the town’s legacy.
Ormsby was named after Ormsby, England, reflecting the British heritage of some of the town’s early settlers. The town has experienced minimal growth in the 20th century, but it remains an important part of Watonwan County’s rural landscape. The residents of Ormsby maintain a strong community bond, and the town is known for its peaceful rural atmosphere, where the pace of life is slower, and agriculture continues to play a central role.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Ormsby does not have its own school, so students are part of the Madelia School District. The Ormsby Community Center serves as a gathering place for local events, and the town is surrounded by farmland, offering scenic views and outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Ormsby Park is a small green space that provides a spot for recreation and picnicking. The peaceful environment and rural charm of Ormsby make it a desirable place for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle.
5. Minnesota Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.92 square miles
- Population: 250 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56068
- Latitude: 43.9522° N
- Longitude: 94.0217° W
Location and History:
Minnesota Lake is located in the northeastern part of Watonwan County. The town was originally established as an agricultural community, and like other towns in the region, it grew due to the fertile soil and availability of farmland. Minnesota Lake is named after a nearby lake that has long been a focal point for the community. The town was incorporated in the early 20th century and developed slowly due to its rural location.
The town saw minimal commercial growth but remains a small, peaceful community, with farming continuing to be the primary occupation for many of its residents. Over time, Minnesota Lake has maintained its rural charm, with the lake itself offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Today, Minnesota Lake is a quiet place to live, offering scenic views and a close-knit community for those who enjoy small-town life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Minnesota Lake is served by the Blue Earth Area School District, with students attending Minnesota Lake High School. The Minnesota Lake Park offers a relaxing spot for picnics, hiking, and enjoying nature, while the lake provides recreational opportunities for residents. The Minnesota Lake Community Center hosts a variety of local events, and the surrounding rural landscape offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hunting.
