The state of Minnesota is home to 87 counties. Besides, it is also noted for having various historical counties. On 27 October 1849, nine counties were introduced to the state, namely Dakotah, Benton, Ramsey, Itasca, Pembina, Mahkahta, Washington, Wabasha, and Wanita. Itasca, Ramsey, Benton, Dakota, Wabasha, and Washington retain their initial names. However, the county of Pembina lost its existence with the introduction of Kittson County on 9 March 1878.<\/p>\n
When Minnesota was declared as a state, there existed only fifty-seven counties. In 1923, the Lake of Woods County was the last to be added to this state. Most counties derive their names from the ancient history of exploration. More than ten counties derive their names from the different Native American associations of the state, while fifteen counties get their names from the geographical features of Minnesota. The remaining counties got their names from the politicians of this state.<\/p>\n
Some of the prominent counties of Minnesota are as follows:<\/p>\n
Benton County:<\/b> One of the initial nine counties introduced in 1849 by the territorial legislature, Benton County recorded an approximate population of 38,351 in the 2010 census records. When formed, the county was about forty miles in width and hundred miles in length. However, between 1856 and 1860, it was cut short to its current size.<\/p>\n
Its county seat lies in Foley. Benton got its name from Thomas Hart Benton, a renowned senator of Missouri who actively participated to introduce the Homestead Act. The major attractions of this county are Sports Arena East, Sauk Rapids; Municipal Athletic Complex, St. Cloud; National Hockey Center, St. Cloud; Whitney Senior Center, St. Cloud; Paramount Theatre and Arts District, St. Cloud; Munsinger\/Clemens Gardens, St. Cloud.<\/p>\n
The county, as well as its encompassing region, provides various educational opportunities. Besides public schools, Benton also houses various private elementary schools and post-secondary institutions. Benton’s major colleges and universities are College of St. Benedict, St. Cloud Technical College, St. John’s University, St. Cloud State University, Rasmussen College, Regency Beauty Academy, and Model College of Hair Design.<\/p>\n
Aitkin County:<\/b>\u00a0Located in the North Central region of Minnesota, Aitkin County was established in 1857 and Aitkin city is its county seat. The county is home to more than 400 lakes that lure boaters, anglers as well as others who are in love with lakes. The population of lake lovers triples during the summer months. Moreover, the county also attracts hikers, walkers, ATV riders, and bikers.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, those willing to tour this county during the winters can look for some exciting snowmobiling and fishing activities. In short, it makes a good choice for vacationers in the winter and summer months.<\/p>\n
Kittson County:<\/b> Located on the northwestern side of Minnesota, the county was established in 1878. The county seat of Kittson is Hallock. The county is further subdivided into four watershed districts, three school districts, nine cities, four unorganized townships, and 26 organized townships. The adjacent counties include Roseau County, Walsh County, Marshall County, and Pembina County.<\/p>\n
The western region of Kittson County, a part of the Red River Valley, is noted for large amounts of wheat, soybeans, canola, sunflowers, barley, and sugarbeets. At the same time, the eastern end carves a niche for its wildlife population. Among the major attractions of this county, one cannot certainly miss the Lake Bronson State Park, created during the Work Projects Administration (WPA) days, the most ambitious and biggest American New Deal Agency.<\/p>\n
The county houses various bird species, such as Snow, Sandhill Crane, Marbled Godwit, migrating Swans, owl species, Bald Eagle, Hungarian Partridge, Cormorant, several shore birds, and upland species. Other attractions worth visiting include Aggasiz National Wildlife Refuge, Kittson County Museum, etc.<\/p>\n
The county also offers a wealth of educational centers, including Kittson Central, Lancaster School, and Tri-County School.<\/p>\n
Lake of the Woods County:<\/b> This is the youngest county in the state and was introduced on 28 November 1922. Voting took place among the area residents at this point, and as an outcome, the northern townships were detached from Beltrami County. With Baudette as its county seat, the county initiated its operations officially on 1 January 1923. As per the 2010 census records, Lake of Woods County held an approximate population of 4,045. The county makes a good choice for those interested in forest explorations, fishing, and hunting.<\/p>\nMaps of All Counties of Minnesota<\/h2>\n
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