The History of Fairmont, Minnesota

Fairmont is in southeastern Minnesota, near its border with Iowa. The "City of Lakes," Fairmont got its official start in 1857. Today, its five lakes and other charms beckon travelers who need a break from Interstate 90.

First Settlers

The Winnebago Indians were the first inhabitants of the area that would become Fairmont. In the summer of 1857, the first permanent white settlers built homes there.

A Town Is Born

In October 1857, Fairmont was mapped and named Fair Mount for its hilly, green surroundings. Its post office, the first in Martin County, was dedicated the next year.

Fort Fairmount

In 1862, during the Sioux uprising, frightened settlers built a fort to protect their town. It was abandoned after the Civil War, and the present courthouse now occupies the spot.

Grasshopper Plague

Many of Fairmont's farmers succumbed to Minnesota's battle with a locust plague from 1873 to 1877, pulling up stakes and moving elsewhere. New English settlers and the arrival of the railroad in 1878 brought success again.

Staying Solvent

In the hard times of the 1930s, no banks failed in Fairmont. Today, the city is home to a 3M plant, among other industries.

References

• Fairmont.org