National Register Listings in

Becker County, Minnesota

Becker County, located in the state of Minnesota, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe, who relied on the abundant natural resources of the region for sustenance and trade.

The first known European exploration of the area occurred in the 18th century when French fur traders and explorers ventured into the region. In the early 19th century, the United States acquired the territory through the Louisiana Purchase, and the first European-American settlers began arriving in the 1850s. The establishment of a trading post by Joseph and Charles Godfrey in 1854 marked the beginning of permanent settlement in what is now Becker County.

In 1858, the Minnesota Territory officially organized Becker County, naming it in honor of George Loomis Becker, a temporary judge in the area. The county grew rapidly in the late 19th century with the expansion of the railroad and the timber industry. Logging became a significant economic activity, attracting immigrants from Europe, particularly Scandinavia. Numerous sawmills were established, and the timber resources of the nearby forests were extensively exploited.

In the early 20th century, the county experienced a shift from logging to agriculture as the primary economic driver. Improved technology and transportation infrastructure encouraged farmers to cultivate crops and raise livestock. Today, Becker County remains an important agricultural region, known for its production of corn, soybeans, wheat, and dairy products. The county's natural beauty and numerous lakes also attract tourists who enjoy fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.