Steele County, Minnesota
Overview
Steele County was named in honor of Franklin Steele, a prominent St. Anthony contractor, entrepreneur, and influential figure credited with helping to found the City of Minneapolis.
The County was officially organized on February 20, 1855. At the time, it included territory that later became Waseca County. A reorganization in 1856 established the county boundaries that remain in place today.
Location and Geography
Steele County is one of Minnesota’s 87 counties.
Located in southeastern Minnesota, Steele County covers 432 square miles. The county measures approximately 24 miles from north to south and 18 miles from east to west.
The County is positioned 45 miles south of the Twin Cities along Interstate 35W. Highway 14 provides direct access to Rochester (40 miles east) and Mankato (45 miles west). Steele County is one of Minnesota’s 87 counties.
Cities and Townships
Steele County includes four incorporated cities:
• Owatonna (county seat)
• Blooming Prairie
• Ellendale
• Medford
The County also includes thirteen townships that make up the surrounding rural areas.
Population
In 1860 Steele County had a population of 2,863 as compared to 21,155 in 1950 and 36,933 as of the 2019 census.
Natural Features
Steele County features numerous streams, natural springs, brooks, and lakes. The Straight River is the largest stream, flowing north from Owatonna through farmland before joining the Cannon River in Faribault.
Rice Lake, located east of Owatonna, is the largest lake in the County and serves as the headwaters for the south branch of the middle fork of the Zumbro River.
Owatonna is home to nine natural mineral springs located in Mineral Springs Park. Analysis of these springs has shown mineral qualities similar to celebrated springs in France.
County History and Buildings
The first county building was constructed in 1874. It was a one-story brick building costing $5,000 and has since been demolished.
The historic Steele County Courthouse, built in 1891 at a cost of $50,000, remains an iconic landmark. It has undergone several remodels and is now used exclusively by the courts.
If you would like to learn more about Steele County History, visit the Steele County Historical Society.
