Nowthen, MN

County: Anoka

History

Nowthen, Minnesota

Nowthen, Minnesota is a small city located in the southern part of Anoka County, in the United States. The city, which has a population of around 4,000 people, is a relatively new municipality, incorporated in 2008.

Prior to its incorporation, the area that is now known as Nowthen was mainly rural, with a mix of farms and scattered residential areas. The region has a rich agricultural history, dating back to the 1850s when settlers began moving to the area.

One of the earliest settlements in the area was Clarks Grove, which was established in 1856. It served as a hub for the local community, with amenities such as a hotel, post office, and a school. However, despite its early promise, Clarks Grove began to decline in the late 19th century due to the construction of railroads in neighboring towns.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, farming became the mainstay of the local economy. Many families settled in the area and established dairy farms, orchards, and grain fields. The community continued to grow and prosper, although it remained predominantly agricultural.

The name "Nowthen" was derived from a combination of the surnames of two early settlers, Noah and Samuel Thenow. The area became known as Nowthen Township, which spanned over 36 square miles. Over the years, the township experienced modest growth and development, but remained primarily rural.

In the early 2000s, due to a combination of factors including increasing suburbanization and a desire for more local control, residents of Nowthen Township began exploring the possibility of incorporating as a city. After several years of discussions and planning, residents voted in favor of incorporation in 2007, and the city of Nowthen was officially formed on January 1, 2008.

Since its incorporation, Nowthen has remained a small city with a focus on preserving its rural character. The city has enacted zoning regulations to ensure that agricultural activities continue to thrive, and have encouraged the preservation of open spaces and natural resources.

In recent years, Nowthen has experienced slow but steady growth, attracting new residents who are seeking a quieter, suburban/rural lifestyle. The city continues to embrace its agricultural heritage while also adapting to the changing needs and demands of its residents.

Overall, Nowthen, Minnesota has a relatively short but rich history, rooted in its farming heritage and the determination of its residents to maintain a close-knit community in a rapidly evolving region.

Attractions

Elm Creek Park Reserve

Nowthen, MN is a small rural community located in Minnesota. Although it is a small town with limited attractions, there are still some interesting places nearby that you can visit. Here are a few attractions near Nowthen:

Elm Creek Park Reserve

Located in nearby Maple Grove, Elm Creek Park Reserve offers beautiful natural scenery, hiking and biking trails, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding opportunities.

Anoka Halloween Capital of the World

Anoka, the neighboring city of Nowthen, is known as the Halloween Capital of the World. It hosts numerous Halloween events and festivities, including parades, haunted houses, and scarecrow contests.

Bunker Beach Water Park

If you're looking for some water fun, Bunker Beach Water Park in nearby Coon Rapids is a popular destination. It features water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and other water attractions.

Mississippi River Regional Trail

The Mississippi River Regional Trail is a 26-mile trail that follows the Mississippi River, passing through nearby cities like Anoka, Ramsey, and Dayton. It offers beautiful views, biking, walking, and running opportunities.

Rum River Central Regional Park

Located in nearby Anoka, Rum River Central Regional Park offers a scenic park along the Rum River. It provides picnic areas, hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities.

It's worth mentioning that Nowthen is a quiet rural community, so if you're looking for more significant attractions or tourist hotspots, you may need to venture out to nearby cities.

Climate

Nowthen, MN experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The climate in Nowthen is influenced by its location in the state of Minnesota, which lies in the northern part of the United States.

Winters in Nowthen are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The average high temperature in winter is around 28°F (-2°C), while the average low temperature is around 9°F (-13°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of about 45 inches (114 cm). This creates a picturesque winter landscape in Nowthen.

Summers in Nowthen are warm, with temperatures reaching an average high of around 81°F (27°C). However, temperatures can occasionally soar into the 90s°F (32-37°C) during heatwaves. The warmest month, on average, is July. While summers are generally pleasant, it is not uncommon to experience thunderstorms, which can occasionally produce heavy rain and hail.

Nowthen also experiences a transitional spring and fall season. Springs are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 40-60°F (4-16°C), and occasional rainfall. Falls are characterized by cooler temperatures, with highs ranging from 46-68°F (8-20°C). The fall season in Nowthen is known for its beautiful colors, as the leaves change before falling off the trees.

Overall, Nowthen, MN experiences all four distinct seasons with a relatively wide temperature range throughout the year. The winters are cold and snowy, while the summers are warm and occasionally hot. If you are planning to visit, it is recommended to pack accordingly to suit the weather conditions of the season.

Neighborhoods

Nowthen, MN is a small, rural city located in the northwestern part of Anoka County. It is primarily a residential area with a population of approximately 4,600 people. While Nowthen itself is not comprised of distinct neighborhoods, it does have several nearby communities that offer different amenities and characteristics.

Ramsey

Situated adjacent to Nowthen, Ramsey is a larger city with a population of around 27,000 residents. It offers a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Ramsey provides various recreational opportunities, including parks, trails, and a golf course. The city also has many shopping and dining options.

Anoka

Located about 15 miles southeast of Nowthen, Anoka is the county seat of Anoka County. Known as the "Halloween Capital of the World," Anoka is famous for its festive celebrations and parades. It features a charming downtown area with unique shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. The city also provides access to the Rum River, which offers recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Elk River

Positioned to the northwest of Nowthen, Elk River is a larger suburban city with a population of approximately 25,000 residents. It offers a variety of amenities, including several shopping centers, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities. Elk River is known for its numerous parks and trails, providing opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking.

St. Francis

Located east of Nowthen, St. Francis is a smaller community with a population of around 8,000 residents. It has a more rural feel, with a mix of housing options and agricultural fields. St. Francis features a popular county park called Rum River Central Regional Park, offering nature trails, picnic areas, and a beach for swimming.

Overall, the neighborhoods surrounding Nowthen, MN provide a range of options for residents looking for a mix of rural and suburban environments, with various amenities, entertainment, and outdoor activities.

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