County of hennepin
minnesota
History & Founding
Located in the heart of Minnesota, this county represents a dynamic blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty. Established in 1852 from Ramsey County, its name honors Captain Silas H. Hennepin, a French explorer who accompanied Louis Hennepin on an expedition down the Mississippi River in 1672. Hennepin’s journals, though often embellished, provided early European accounts of the region. The Dakota people had inhabited the area for centuries prior, and their presence significantly shaped the landscape and its resources. The county played a crucial role in Minnesota’s westward expansion and the development of its transportation infrastructure, particularly with the rise of the railroad. An interesting anecdote from its early days involves the “Mill City Museum” building, formerly known as the Washburn A Mill, which famously exploded in 1871, sending debris across the city and causing significant damage – a stark reminder of the industrial age’s risks.
Geography & Landscape
The county occupies a geographically diverse area within east-central Minnesota. Situated along the Mississippi River, it’s bordered by Ramsey County to the east and Carver County to the west. The terrain is primarily flat to gently rolling, characteristic of the prairie landscape. Numerous rivers and creeks, including the Minnehaha Creek and the Shingle Creek, crisscross the region. The county boasts a significant number of lakes, providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the area’s aesthetic appeal. While lacking mountains, the landscape is punctuated by bluffs and ridges. The climate is continental, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Average annual precipitation is relatively consistent, supporting a variety of plant and animal life.
Economy & Communities
This county is a microcosm of Minnesota's economic landscape. Minneapolis, the county seat, serves as a major regional hub, driving much of the economic activity. The area is characterized by a mix of urban, suburban, and some remaining rural communities. Forty-two cities and towns contribute to the county’s vibrant population. Historically, agriculture played a significant role, but today the economy is dominated by industries such as healthcare, finance, retail, and technology. Major employers include the University of Minnesota, Target Corporation, and Allina Health System. The county is also a significant center for manufacturing and distribution. While some agricultural land remains, particularly in the western portions, the area is primarily urban and suburban in character.
Points of Interest
The county offers a wealth of points of interest. The Chain of Lakes offers a scenic recreational area, while Minnehaha Falls State Park showcases a stunning waterfall and hiking trails. The Mill City Museum, housed in the ruins of the historic Washburn A Mill, provides a glimpse into the region's milling history. The Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Art are renowned cultural institutions. The county is known for its festivals, including the Stone's Throw Festival celebrating local arts and culture. Notable residents throughout history have included artists, athletes, and business leaders who have shaped the region’s identity. It holds the distinction of having a particularly high concentration of Fortune 500 company headquarters, reflecting its significant role in the national economy.
Information
- State
- minnesota
- Type
- County
- Population
- 1,116,200
- Land area
- 557 sq mi
- Capital
- Minneapolis
- Time zone
- UTC-6
- FIPS
- 27053
42 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | 382,618 | 820 ft (250 m) |
| Bloomington | 85,172 | 830 ft (253 m) |
| Brooklyn Park | 67,388 | 870 ft (265 m) |
| Plymouth | 65,894 | 970 ft (296 m) |
| Eden Prairie | 54,901 | 880 ft (268 m) |
| Minnetonka | 51,301 | 890 ft (271 m) |
| Maple Grove | 50,365 | 930 ft (283 m) |
| Edina | 47,425 | 900 ft (274 m) |
| St. Louis Park | 44,126 | 880 ft (268 m) |
| Richfield | 34,439 | 842 ft (257 m) |
| Brooklyn Center | 29,172 | 860 ft (262 m) |
| Crystal | 22,698 | 890 ft (271 m) |
| Champlin | 22,193 | 850 ft (259 m) |
| New Hope | 20,873 | 930 ft (283 m) |
| Golden Valley | 20,281 | 850 ft (259 m) |
| Hopkins | 17,145 | - |
| Robbinsdale | 14,123 | - |
| Mound | 9,435 | 942 ft (287 m) |
| St. Anthony | 8,012 | 920 ft (280 m) |
| Orono | 7,538 | 970 ft (296 m) |
| Shorewood | 7,400 | 980 ft (299 m) |
| Corcoran | 5,630 | 960 ft (293 m) |
| Dayton | 4,699 | 870 ft (265 m) |
| Minnetrista | 4,358 | 1,012 ft (308 m) |
| Wayzata | 4,113 | 930 ft (283 m) |
| Medina | 4,005 | 1,050 ft (320 m) |
| Deephaven | 3,853 | 870 ft (265 m) |
| Rogers | 3,588 | - |
| Independence | 3,236 | - |
| Greenfield | 2,544 | 1,052 ft (321 m) |
| Osseo | 2,434 | - |
| Excelsior | 2,393 | - |
| Maple Plain | 2,088 | 1,020 ft (311 m) |
| St. Bonifacius | 1,873 | 970 ft (296 m) |
| Long Lake | 1,842 | 981 ft (299 m) |
| Spring Park | 1,717 | 950 ft (290 m) |
| Tonka Bay | 1,547 | 940 ft (287 m) |
| Greenwood | 729 | 940 ft (287 m) |
| Minnetonka Beach | 614 | 940 ft (287 m) |
| Loretto | 570 | 1,010 ft (308 m) |
| Woodland | 480 | - |
| Medicine Lake | 368 | 890 ft (271 m) |