History of Benton County, Minnesota

Benton County, Minnesota, located in central Minnesota, is a region rich in history and natural beauty. Established in 1849, the county was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a prominent U.S. Senator from Missouri who advocated for westward expansion. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, and later became a key agricultural and industrial hub with the arrival of settlers in the mid-19th century. Today, Benton County maintains a balance between its rural roots and its growing population, with a rich history that includes Native American heritage, European settlement, and agricultural development.

Origins of Benton County

Native American Inhabitants

Before the arrival of European settlers, the land that would become Benton County was inhabited by the Ojibwe (Chippewa) and Dakota Sioux tribes. The Ojibwe were the dominant tribe in this region, living in the forests near the Mississippi River and along its tributaries. They hunted, fished, and farmed the land, relying on the area’s rich natural resources for their sustenance.

The land was part of the larger Dakota Territory until the U.S. government began to push Native American tribes westward during the 19th century. The treaties signed between the U.S. government and the Native American tribes forced many tribes out of Minnesota, including the Sioux who were removed to reservations. The area was opened to settlers, which led to the rapid expansion of European settlement in the mid-1800s.

Establishment of Benton County

Benton County was formally organized on March 6, 1849, as part of Minnesota Territory. It was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a U.S. Senator from Missouri who strongly supported the expansion of the United States into western territories. Originally, the county was much larger, encompassing parts of what are now neighboring counties. However, as more counties were established, Benton County’s boundaries were reduced to its current size.

In the early years, the county was sparsely populated, with most settlers living along the Mississippi River and in the fertile land of the central part of the county. Agriculture became the mainstay of the local economy, and the fertile soil attracted many German and Scandinavian immigrants looking to farm. By the 1850s, the county was home to a growing number of farms, small settlements, and villages.

The Impact of Agriculture

The fertile soil in Benton County, especially along the Mississippi River, made it an ideal location for farming. The region became known for its production of crops such as wheat, corn, and oats. The agricultural expansion of the area in the 1850s and 1860s was in large part due to the Homestead Act of 1862, which provided free land to settlers willing to farm it.

The railroad also played a significant role in the county’s development. The Great Northern Railway and other rail lines passed through Benton County, helping to transport agricultural products to markets in Minneapolis and St. Paul, and connecting the area with the rest of the state and country. The availability of transportation allowed farmers to sell their crops and livestock to distant markets, which led to the growth of several towns within the county, including the county seat, Foley.

Key Historical Events

The Arrival of European Settlers

In the 1850s, European settlers—primarily of German, Scandinavian, and Irish descent—began moving into the area that is now Benton County. The land was cleared for farming, and communities began to form around the newly constructed railroads. Many settlers were attracted to the fertile soil and the promise of a better life through farming. The first town to be established was Sauk Rapids, located near the Mississippi River.

One of the most significant waves of immigration came from Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Sweden. Many of these immigrants settled in the central and northern parts of the county, where they established farming communities. The legacy of these immigrants can still be seen today in Benton County’s cultural events, festivals, and community organizations.

The Railroad and Industrialization

The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century revolutionized Benton County. Rail lines provided farmers with a reliable means of transporting their products to distant cities, and the railroads helped fuel the county’s industrial development. In the 1870s, the Great Northern Railway and the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad expanded into Benton County, with stops in towns such as Sauk Rapids and Foley.

These railroads were crucial to the county’s growth, as they facilitated the movement of crops, livestock, and manufactured goods. In addition, the railroads led to the establishment of several small towns and villages that sprang up along the rail lines. For example, the town of Foley was established in the 1860s and quickly grew into a bustling community due to its proximity to the railroad.

The Great Depression and Recovery

Like much of the United States, Benton County was deeply affected by the Great Depression in the 1930s. Farmers struggled with falling crop prices and increased debt, while the agricultural economy suffered from the dust storms and droughts that plagued much of the Midwest. Many families lost their farms, and the county faced significant economic hardship.

During this period, the federal government introduced programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) to help struggling farmers and stimulate economic recovery. These programs helped to stabilize the agricultural market and provided much-needed relief to local communities.

Post-World War II Growth and Suburbanization

After World War II, Benton County experienced significant changes, particularly in terms of population growth and suburbanization. The development of modern agricultural practices, including the use of tractors, fertilizers, and hybrid crops, led to increased productivity. While farming remained the county’s primary economic activity, many residents began moving to larger cities in search of employment and better opportunities.

The post-war years saw the establishment of new industries in Benton County, particularly in the manufacturing and service sectors. The construction of highways and the growth of transportation networks made it easier for residents to commute to nearby cities like St. Cloud and Minneapolis. This led to a population shift, with more people moving to suburban areas while still maintaining ties to their rural agricultural roots.

Historical Sites in Benton County

1. The Benton County Historical Society Museum

Overview:

The Benton County Historical Society Museum in Sauk Rapids is a key site for understanding the history and development of Benton County. The museum features exhibits that highlight the county’s early Native American history, European settlement, the rise of agriculture, and the impact of the railroad. Visitors can explore collections of local artifacts, historical photographs, and exhibits about the region’s cultural evolution.

Location:

The museum is located at 213 1st Avenue North, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota.

Ticket Price:

• Adults: $5
• Children (under 12): Free
• Group rates available.

Parking Information:

Ample parking is available behind the museum and along surrounding streets.

2. The Foley City Hall and Historic District

Overview:

Foley, the county seat of Benton County, has a rich history, and the Foley City Hall is an excellent place to start exploring the town’s past. Built in the late 19th century, the city hall is an example of local government architecture from that era. Surrounding the city hall is the Foley Historic District, which features buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s, showcasing the early development of the town in the railroad era.

Location:

The Foley City Hall is located at 251 4th Avenue, Foley, Minnesota.

Ticket Price:

Free to visit.

Parking Information:

Parking is available in the city hall lot, and additional parking can be found nearby.

3. Sauk Rapids Dam and the Mississippi River

Overview:

The Sauk Rapids Dam, built in the early 20th century, played an important role in the region’s development. It helped control flooding along the Mississippi River and provided hydroelectric power for the growing communities in the area. Today, the site is a popular destination for visitors interested in local history and the industrial development of the area. The dam and surrounding parks offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River.

Location:

The Sauk Rapids Dam is located just off Highway 10 in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota.

Ticket Price:

Free to visit.

Parking Information:

Free parking is available at the nearby park and along Highway 10.

4. The Rice Schoolhouse

Overview:

The Rice Schoolhouse, located in the small town of Rice, Minnesota, is a preserved one-room schoolhouse from the late 1800s. The schoolhouse serves as a reminder of the early days of education in Benton County and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of children and teachers in rural Minnesota. The schoolhouse has been restored and contains historical exhibits about education in the area.

Location:

The Rice Schoolhouse is located at 1000 4th Avenue NE, Rice, Minnesota.

Ticket Price:

• Adults: $3
• Children (under 12): Free

Parking Information:

Parking is available in front of the schoolhouse.

Geography and Climate of Benton County

Geography:

Benton County is located in central Minnesota and covers an area of approximately 400 square miles. The county is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and numerous lakes and rivers. The Mississippi River runs through the western edge of the county, providing a natural boundary and a significant waterway. The land is mostly rural, with agricultural activity dominating the landscape. Forested areas, particularly in the northern part of the county, provide natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Climate:

Benton County experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with average lows in January ranging from 5°F to 10°F. Snowfall is common, averaging about 40 inches per year. Summer temperatures are typically in the 70s and 80s, with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures above 90°F. The county receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with rainfall peaks in the late spring and early summer.

County Facts

• Year Founded: 1849
• County Seat: Foley
• Population: Approximately 42,000
• Population Density: 105 people per square mile
• Largest Cities: Sauk Rapids, Foley, Rice
• Major Highways: U.S. Highway 10, Minnesota State Highway 23, Minnesota State Highway 25
• Adjacent Counties: Stearns County, Sherburne County, Mille Lacs County, Isanti County

Benton County, Minnesota, offers a rich historical narrative shaped by its agricultural roots, Native American heritage, and industrial growth. From the arrival of early settlers to the development of key historical sites, the county provides a fascinating glimpse into Minnesota’s past. Today, Benton County continues to balance its rural agricultural traditions with the growth of its communities, making it a vibrant and dynamic region in central Minnesota.