National Register Listings in
Pine County, Minnesota

Bethlehem Lutheran Church District No. 74 School Doboszenski, John, Farmstead Hinckley Fire Relief House Hinckley State Line Marker Hultgren, Louis, House and Sand Pit Kettle River Bridge Kettle River Sandstone Company Quarry Kilstofte, Peter P., Farmstead Minneapolis Trust Company Commercial Building Northern Pacific Depot Northern Pacific Depot Northwest Company Post Oldenburg, John A., House Partridge Township Hall Red Clover Land Company Demonstration Farm Sandstone School Schwyzer, Arnold, Summer House and Farmstead St. Croix Recreational Demonstration Area St. Croix Recreational Demonstration Area Willow River Rutabaga Warehouse and Processing Plant
The first successful open-heart surgery was performed in 1952 at the University of Minnesota by Dr. C. Walton Lillehei.
Minnesota random facts
Pine County, Minnesota, located in the eastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe and Dakota, who relied on the region's forests and rivers for hunting and fishing. European explorers and traders began to arrive in the area in the 17th century, establishing a fur trade network that brought more settlers to the region.

In the mid-19th century, Pine County saw a significant influx of European immigrants, primarily from Scandinavian countries, who came to the area in search of opportunities in the logging industry. The abundant pine forests in the region made it an ideal location for timber harvesting, leading to the establishment of numerous sawmills and logging camps. The logging industry played a crucial role in the county's economy for many years, with lumber being transported via rivers and railroads to larger markets.

As the logging industry thrived, Pine County experienced rapid growth and development. Towns and villages sprang up across the region, including Pine City, the county seat. The construction of railroads further facilitated transportation and increased the accessibility of the area. Agriculture also became an important sector of the local economy, with farms and dairy operations emerging in the surrounding countryside.

In the 20th century, Pine County underwent several transformations. The decline of the logging industry led to economic challenges, but the county gradually diversified its economy and focused on other industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county's natural beauty, including lakes, forests, and scenic landscapes, attracted visitors and outdoor enthusiasts, leading to the development of recreational opportunities and the establishment of several state parks.

Today, Pine County continues to thrive as a rural area with a strong sense of community. It celebrates its rich history with various historical sites and museums, offering residents and visitors a glimpse into the county's past. The county also embraces its natural resources, ensuring their preservation while promoting sustainable economic development for future generations.

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

  • 1837 - Pine County is established and named after the abundant pine forests in the area
  • 1855 - First sawmill is built in Pine County
  • 1862 - Pine County is greatly affected by the Dakota War, with many settlers leaving the area for safety
  • 1871 - Railroads reach Pine County, boosting economic growth and transportation
  • 1887 - Pine County Courthouse is completed
  • 1918 - Pine County experiences the devastating effects of the Spanish flu pandemic
  • 1933 - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in Pine County
  • 1945 - Pine County witnesses a post-World War II economic boom
  • 2012 - Pine County celebrates its 175th anniversary