McLeod County

McLeod County is an administrative division in central Minnesota with gently rolling terrain covered by farmland and prairie. The South Fork Crow River flows through the landscape, and several communities are spread across the region to serve local populations.

The Minnesota Territorial legislature created McLeod County in 1856, naming it after Martin McLeod, a Canadian fur trader and explorer. Czech immigrants began settling in the area shortly after, reshaping the region's population and land use.

Czech settlers from Bohemia arrived starting in 1859 and shaped the region through farming and community life. Their influence remains visible in local buildings, family names, and how people maintain rural traditions today.

Glencoe serves as the county seat with administrative offices, while Hutchinson is the largest city with shops and services for visitors. Most areas are best reached by car, as communities are spread out across the landscape.

The county contains several lakes including Baker's Lake and Eagle Lake, which offer fishing and water activities for visitors. These water bodies create natural gathering spots and break up the agricultural landscape in unexpected ways.

Location: Minnesota

Inception: March 1, 1856

Capital city: Glencoe

Shares border with: Wright County, Sibley County, Carver County, Meeker County, Renville County

Website: http://co.mcleod.mn.us

GPS coordinates: 44.83000,-94.27000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:44