Ness Cemetery State Monument

Meeker County, located in central Minnesota, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The region was originally inhabited by the Dakota Sioux Native American tribe, who used the land for hunting and fishing. In 1853, the United States government negotiated a treaty with the Dakota Sioux that opened up the area for settlement by European Americans.

The first European settlers arrived in what is now Meeker County in the late 1850s, establishing small farming communities along the shores of the Crow River. The county was officially established in 1856 and was named after Bradley B. Meeker, a pioneer and early judge in the region. As more settlers arrived, the county's population grew, and towns and villages began to form.

One of the notable events in Meeker County's history is the U.S-Dakota War of 1862. This conflict between the Dakota Sioux and European American settlers resulted in the forced removal of the Dakota from the region. Many settlers fled the area, and it took several years for the county to recover and rebuild.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Meeker County experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s connected the county to larger markets, leading to the establishment of flour mills, sawmills, and other industries. Agriculture also played a significant role in the county's economy, with the fertile soil and abundant water resources supporting the growth of corn, wheat, and livestock farming.

Today, Meeker County remains a thriving agricultural community, with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county is home to several parks, recreational areas, and historical sites, preserving its rich heritage for future generations to enjoy.