History of Becker County, Minnesota

Becker County, located in west-central Minnesota, boasts a rich history marked by its early indigenous cultures, European settlement, and development as a major agricultural and tourism region. Established in 1858, the county was originally home to the Ojibwe (Chippewa) people, who lived off the land’s bountiful resources. Following the arrival of settlers in the mid-1800s, Becker County developed as a hub for farming, logging, and tourism due to its picturesque lakes and natural beauty. Today, the county is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and vibrant communities, blending a rural heritage with modern-day attractions.

Origins and Early History

Native American Tribes

Before European settlers arrived, Becker County was primarily inhabited by the Ojibwe (Chippewa) people, one of the largest Native American tribes in the Great Lakes and northern Minnesota regions. The Ojibwe lived in the area for centuries, utilizing the region’s abundant natural resources, including the area’s numerous lakes and rivers, for fishing, hunting, and trade. The lands in Becker County, especially around the lakes, were crucial to the tribe’s lifestyle. The area was also a central location for trade between other Indigenous groups and European settlers.

The Ojibwe tribes, who referred to themselves as “Anishinaabe,” spoke an Algonquian language and followed a semi-nomadic lifestyle. They built their villages near lakes and rivers, where they hunted wild rice, fished, and hunted animals such as deer, moose, and bears. Their lifestyle also incorporated rich traditions of crafts, stories, and ceremonies. The arrival of European settlers led to changes in land use, trade patterns, and the displacement of Native American tribes.

European Settlement and the Fur Trade

The first European settlers to enter Becker County were part of the fur trade network established by French and British explorers in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. French missionaries and traders established relations with the Ojibwe and other tribes in the region, facilitating trade in furs, beads, and other goods. However, permanent European settlements did not begin until the early 1800s, when the area became part of the United States through treaties with the Native American tribes.

By the 1830s, settlers began to enter the area as the U.S. government encouraged the westward expansion of the American frontier. European-American settlers were drawn to Becker County for its fertile soil, rich forests, and vast lakes. Logging and fur trading became the initial economic engines of the region, and a few small settlements began to emerge, including the eventual county seat, Detroit Lakes.

Establishment of Becker County (1858)

Becker County was officially established in 1858, when it was formally organized as a county within the Minnesota Territory, which had become a state just a few months earlier. The county was named after Colonel Thomas H. Becker, a prominent Minnesota politician. The establishment of Becker County coincided with a larger population boom in the region, as the railroad expanded across the state, further opening up opportunities for settlers to stake claims on the land.

The county’s economy initially relied heavily on agriculture, as settlers cleared land for farming and began cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, and oats. Logging continued to be important, and the timber industry flourished as settlers logged the area’s dense forests. By the end of the 19th century, Becker County had become an important agricultural center in the state.

Key Historical Events

The Rise of Agriculture and Logging (Late 1800s)

As Minnesota entered the late 19th century, agriculture and logging were the backbone of Becker County’s economy. The region’s abundant forests provided timber for building, while the fertile land yielded crops such as wheat, corn, and potatoes. Farming families settled along the shores of the many lakes and rivers, attracted by the rich soil and availability of water.

The logging industry boomed, particularly along the many waterways that facilitated the transportation of logs to mills in nearby towns. Beaver, maple, and pine trees were harvested in abundance. Logging camps were established throughout the county, and sawmills began to dot the landscape. The economic importance of both agriculture and logging grew steadily until the early 20th century, when the demand for timber began to decrease.

The Development of Detroit Lakes (Late 1800s to Early 1900s)

The founding of Detroit Lakes in 1871 marked a significant turning point in Becker County’s history. Originally a trading post, Detroit Lakes quickly grew into a key commercial center for the surrounding agricultural and timber industries. The city became the county seat in 1871, and it soon developed into a hub for trade and transportation. As a major stop on the railroad and an important location on the shores of Big Detroit Lake, the city flourished in the early 1900s.

In the early 1900s, Detroit Lakes also became a popular destination for tourists, particularly wealthy families from Minneapolis and surrounding cities. The natural beauty of the lakes and the surrounding forests made it a popular location for vacation homes and resorts. The tourism industry began to flourish in the region during this time, and Detroit Lakes became known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hunting.

The Great Depression and Recovery (1930s-1940s)

Like much of the United States, Becker County was affected by the Great Depression of the 1930s. Agricultural prices plummeted, and many farmers struggled to make ends meet. The logging industry also suffered during this period, as the demand for timber decreased. However, the county slowly began to recover as federal programs, such as the New Deal, provided aid to struggling farmers and small businesses.

During World War II, the county experienced a slight economic boost as military demand for food, timber, and other resources increased. After the war, the economy in Becker County began to stabilize, with many veterans returning to their agricultural or logging jobs. The tourism industry in Detroit Lakes also saw a resurgence in the postwar years, as the city became an increasingly popular vacation destination.

The Rise of Tourism (Mid-20th Century-Present)

In the second half of the 20th century, tourism became one of Becker County’s most significant industries. The county’s beautiful lakes, forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities drew thousands of visitors each year. With improved roads and more accessible transportation, Detroit Lakes became a regional destination for tourists seeking leisure and recreation.

In recent decades, the area has increasingly relied on the tourism industry as one of the main contributors to its economy. The development of resorts, recreational parks, and annual events such as the Becker County Fair has helped foster the area’s growth as a vibrant hub for both local residents and visitors.

Historical Sites

1. Becker County Historical Society & Museum

Overview and Location

Located in Detroit Lakes, the Becker County Historical Society & Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the county, from its Native American origins to its modern-day development. The museum features exhibits on the region’s early inhabitants, including the Ojibwe people, and displays on the early settlers, agriculture, and logging industries. The museum’s collections also highlight the growth of Detroit Lakes as a resort town and the impact of tourism on the county’s development.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Free (Donations are appreciated)
• Parking: Free parking is available in a lot next to the museum.

2. Detroit Lakes City Park and Beach

Overview and Location

Detroit Lakes City Park is located on the shores of Big Detroit Lake, the largest lake in the county. The park, with its sandy beaches and picnic areas, has been a gathering place for residents and tourists alike for over a century. The park is also home to the Detroit Lakes Pavilion, which hosts concerts, events, and cultural activities throughout the year. The park and beach remain central to the county’s tourism industry and are a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Free
• Parking: Free parking is available in the City Park lot.

3. The Historic Holmes City Cemetery

Overview and Location

The Holmes City Cemetery, located just south of Detroit Lakes, is one of the oldest burial sites in Becker County. Established in the late 19th century, the cemetery holds the graves of many of the area’s earliest settlers. The cemetery is a peaceful and historic site that reflects the growth of the community and offers insight into the early pioneers of the region.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Free
• Parking: Parking is available along the roadside.

4. Turtle Mountain State Wildlife Management Area

Overview and Location

Located northeast of Detroit Lakes, Turtle Mountain State Wildlife Management Area offers a glimpse into the natural landscape that has shaped Becker County for centuries. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, pheasants, and wild turkey, making it a popular destination for hunting and birdwatching. The landscape features dense forests and rugged terrain, providing a pristine environment for outdoor enthusiasts.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

• Admission: Free
• Parking: Parking is available at the entrance to the park.

County Facts

Geography and Climate

Becker County is located in west-central Minnesota, nestled between the scenic lakes of the region and the forests of the Red River Valley. The county features a variety of landscapes, including expansive forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. The county is dotted with over 400 lakes, the largest being Big Detroit Lake. This abundance of water makes Becker County a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water-based recreation.

The climate in Becker County is classified as humid continental, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The area typically receives a significant amount of snow in winter, while summer temperatures often exceed 80°F (27°C), creating a favorable environment for both winter and summer activities.

Key County Facts

• Year Founded: 1858
• County Seat: Detroit Lakes
• Population: Approximately 34,000 (2020 Census)
• Population Density: 39.9 people per square mile
• Largest Cities: Detroit Lakes, Frazee, Lake Park, Audubon
• Major Highways: U.S. Highway 10, U.S. Highway 59, State Highway 34
• Adjacent Counties: Mahnomen County, Otter Tail County, Hubbard County, Becker County, Clay County