National Register Listings in
Kandiyohi County, Minnesota

Bosch, John, Farmstead Broman, Andreas, Johanna, Anna and Frank E., Farmstead District No. 55 School Endreson, Lars and Guri, House Hotel Atwater Lakeland Hotel Larson, A., & Co. Building Sibley State Park CCC/Rustic Style Historic District Sperry, Albert H. and Jennie C., House Spicer, John M., Summer House and Farm Willmar Auditorium Willmar Hospital Farm for Inebriates Historic District Willmar Municipal Airport Willmar Tribune Building
The iconic animated characters of Rocky and Bullwinkle were created by Minnesota native Jay Ward in the 1950s.
Minnesota random facts
Kandiyohi County, located in central Minnesota, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The land that is now Kandiyohi County was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe. These tribes utilized the region's resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

European settlement in Kandiyohi County began in the mid-19th century with the arrival of missionaries and traders. In 1858, the county was officially established as a separate entity and named after a Dakota word meaning "where the buffalo fish come."

The late 19th century brought a period of rapid growth to Kandiyohi County, driven by the expansion of railroad lines and the establishment of numerous small towns. Agriculture became the dominant industry, with the fertile soil supporting the growth of crops like corn, wheat, and oats. The county also became a major producer of dairy products and livestock.

Over the years, Kandiyohi County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The county remains an agricultural powerhouse, but it has also become a hub for manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. With its scenic landscapes, lakes, and parks, Kandiyohi County has also become a popular destination for outdoor recreation, attracting tourists and residents alike. Today, Kandiyohi County is a vibrant community that embraces its history while looking towards a bright future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kandiyohi County, Minnesota.

  • 1849: Kandiyohi County was established by the Minnesota Territory legislature.
  • 1865: The first white settler arrived in Kandiyohi County.
  • 1867: The county government was organized.
  • 1870: The city of Willmar was platted.
  • 1871: The first school was built in Lake Elizabeth Township.
  • 1873: The Great Northern Railway reached Willmar, stimulating growth in the area.
  • 1894: A county courthouse was built in Willmar.
  • 1921: The first paved road was constructed in Kandiyohi County.
  • 1962: The Green Lake Sanatorium opened to treat tuberculosis patients.
  • 1971: The county's first community college, Ridgewater College, was established in Willmar.
  • 2000: The population of Kandiyohi County exceeded 41,000.