Stillwater, County seat in Washington County, Minnesota
Stillwater is a city in Washington County, Minnesota, sitting on the west bank of the St. Croix River. It features a historic downtown with older stone buildings, parks along the waterfront, and multiple bridges connecting the town to neighboring areas.
The city began in 1843 when four business partners started the Stillwater Lumber Company, establishing a timber settlement by the river. This lumber industry shaped the town's growth and identity for generations.
The Dakota people called this place Hoġan Wanḳe Kin, while the Ojibwe knew it as Giigoonzh-agomod, both names reflecting the abundance of fish in the river. Today, visitors can see how the water remains central to how people spend their time in town.
The downtown area is compact and easy to explore on foot, with main attractions and shops within walking distance of each other. Bridges provide convenient access to both sides of the river, and parking is readily available throughout the town.
The pop-up toaster was invented here: Charles Strite created the first automatic pop-up toaster in 1921 while living in this city. His invention led to the founding of the Toastmaster Company and changed how people prepare breakfast everywhere.
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