We are focusing our research on the years that McLeod lived, 1813 to 1860, and the social and political events that affected his decisions and shaped his life.  His involvement in the fur trade, territorial issues, and early statehood of Minnesota are covered, along with a deeper look into his interpersonal relationships with family, friends, and peers.  Through this research, we hope to gain a better understanding of our state and county’s early history, as well as the man for whom our County is named.

“The Life and Times of Martin McLeod, McLeod County from 1813-1860” history booklet can be

purchased through the MCHS Gift Shop.   Just call, e-mail, or check out our gift shop tab!  

Minnesota and McLeod County

History from 1813-1860

 In the years 1813 to 1860, the area that was to become Minnesota and McLeod County witnessed  some of most extreme social and cultural changes seen in the area to date.  The transformation from almost exclusively indigenous Native American cultures in the early 1800 to the massive influx of Anglo populations from the North, South and East rapidly transformed the state.  This dramatic change occurred so quickly that it could be witnessed within one lifetime. 

Martin McLeod in his short life, compared to our standards not only witnessed these social and cultural shifts, but was an active participant in shaping the history of the state of Minnesota and McLeod County.  The following excerpts give an overview of the many different cultural influences that had an impact on the future state of Minnesota.  Native American, Spanish, English, French and American ownership and influences created the world that Martin McLeod decided to explore, work, and live in.  Along with this cultural diversity, another strong influence in the region and in McLeod’s life was the monstrous demand of the fur trade industry.  Another major factor in the life of Martin McLeod and in his exploration of Minnesota was his involvement with a little known military expedition that would fail in its mission to establish an “Indian Kingdom”, but managed to secure McLeod’s future in Minnesota and lead him to be the namesake of McLeod County.

Bear Lake Store in 1889

Through the years, McLeod County has seen many pioneer settlements flourish, to only later decline and fade away.  Twenty eight different villages and towns in all have shared this fate, each with their own unique story.  As our 2010 Theme, the McLeod County Historical Society and Museum hopes to explore the story of each of these settlements and bring it to you.              Through a compiled history booklet, rotating artifact displays, and interpretative programs, the Museum will learn more about each of these Lost McLeod County Towns and ensure, that although they may have been lost, they will never be forgotten!

The Following Lost Towns are highlighted in “The Lost Towns of McLeod County” history booklet, available through the Museum’s Gift Shop.

Acoma, Cedar City, Clear Lake, Thornton, Brush Prairie, Karn’s City, Collins, Franklin, Fremont, Paris, Glendale, Sundown, South Station, Harmony, Bear Lake, Komensky, Heatwole, West Lynn, Penn Cheese Factory, Bear Creek, South Silver Lake, St. George, Koniska, Fernando, Sumter, Lake Addie, Sherman Station, Rocky Run, and West Winsted.

Over the next year we will feature excerpts from our Lost Towns booklet in each of our monthly newsletters, covering highlights of most of the County’s lost towns.  The Museum welcomes any new or added information, artifacts, photos, or documents that could add to our current lost town collection.