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Minnesota is home to the largest ball of twine ever rolled by one person. Francis A. Johnson started rolling the ball in 1950 and continued to add to it until his death in 1989. The ball weighs over 17,000 pounds and has a circumference of 40 feet.
About Mower County
Mower County Timeline
Mower County, Minnesota, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Dakota Sioux and Winnebago tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the region in the 1850s, drawn by the fertile land and abundant water sources.
In 1856, Mower County was officially established and named after John Edward Mower, a soldier who was killed in the Battle of Monterrey during the Mexican-American War. The county's first settlements were primarily agricultural, with farmers cultivating corn, wheat, and oats. The early years were marked by struggles as settlers faced harsh winters, grasshopper plagues, and prairie fires.
The construction of the railroads in the late 1860s and early 1870s brought significant growth and prosperity to Mower County. The railroads opened up new markets for the county's agricultural products and attracted more settlers and businesses. Austin, the county seat, became a thriving center of commerce and industry.
In the early 20th century, Mower County continued to develop and diversify its economy. The city of Austin became well-known for its meatpacking industry, with several major packing plants operating in the area. The county also saw growth in manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors, with the establishment of companies, hospitals, and educational institutions.
Today, Mower County is a vibrant community that blends its agricultural heritage with modern industries. It is known for its scenic landscapes, quality schools, and recreational opportunities. The county continues to grow and adapt, preserving its history while embracing new opportunities for economic development and community progress.
In 1856, Mower County was officially established and named after John Edward Mower, a soldier who was killed in the Battle of Monterrey during the Mexican-American War. The county's first settlements were primarily agricultural, with farmers cultivating corn, wheat, and oats. The early years were marked by struggles as settlers faced harsh winters, grasshopper plagues, and prairie fires.
The construction of the railroads in the late 1860s and early 1870s brought significant growth and prosperity to Mower County. The railroads opened up new markets for the county's agricultural products and attracted more settlers and businesses. Austin, the county seat, became a thriving center of commerce and industry.
In the early 20th century, Mower County continued to develop and diversify its economy. The city of Austin became well-known for its meatpacking industry, with several major packing plants operating in the area. The county also saw growth in manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors, with the establishment of companies, hospitals, and educational institutions.
Today, Mower County is a vibrant community that blends its agricultural heritage with modern industries. It is known for its scenic landscapes, quality schools, and recreational opportunities. The county continues to grow and adapt, preserving its history while embracing new opportunities for economic development and community progress.
Mower County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Mower County, Minnesota.
- 1855: Mower County is established by the Minnesota Legislature.
- 1856: Austin, the county seat, is platted and settled.
- 1858: The first post office is established in Austin.
- 1865: Mower County's first newspaper, the "Mower County Transcript," is published.
- 1873: The Southern Minnesota Railroad reaches Austin.
- 1886: The Hormel meatpacking plant is founded in Austin.
- 1910: The Hormel Institute, a biomedical research center, is established in Austin.
- 1933: The Hormel strike, a historic labor conflict, takes place in Austin.
- 1966: The Hormel Foundation is established to support local educational, charitable, and scientific activities.
- 1975: The Hormel Historic Home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 1998: The Hormel Foods Corporation celebrates its 100th anniversary.
- 2004: The Hormel Institute expands with the addition of a new research facility.