Wilkin County

Wilkin County is a rural county in western Minnesota located along the North Dakota border in the Red River Valley region. The landscape consists primarily of agricultural land with gently rolling terrain typical of this agricultural zone.

The county was established in 1858 and underwent multiple name changes before receiving its current name in honor of Colonel Alexander Wilkin in 1868. These early renamings reflected the evolving administrative organization of the Minnesota Territory.

The Sheriff of Wilkin County performs multiple roles, including law enforcement duties, search operations, coroner responsibilities, and court proceedings administration for the local community.

The county courthouse in Breckenridge serves as the administrative center for official business and public services. Visitors should plan their visits during regular weekday hours and contact ahead to confirm availability for specific services.

The county maintains a 21-bed jail facility and establishes protection contracts with six different towns within its jurisdiction for local law enforcement services.

Location: Minnesota

Inception: March 6, 1868

Capital city: Breckenridge

Shares border with: Clay County, Traverse County, Otter Tail County, Grant County, Richland County

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

GPS coordinates: 46.36000,-96.47000

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:44