Sartell, MN

County: Stearns

History

Sartell, Minnesota

Sartell, Minnesota is a small city located on the western bank of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the area.

The land where Sartell is now located was originally inhabited by the Dakota and Ojibwe Native American tribes. However, following the establishment of the United States, the territory was opened up for settlement under the Homestead Act of 1862.

In 1854, a man named Joseph B. Sartell, a native of Maine, traveled to the area and saw the potential for waterpower along the Mississippi River. He purchased land and built a sawmill along the river, which would later become the foundation of the Sartell Paper Mill.

The area grew steadily over the following decades as more settlers arrived and established farms. By 1905, the village of Sartell was officially incorporated, primarily for the benefit of the growing mill industry.

In 1907, the Sartell brothers, who had been running a small hydroelectric station, formed a partnership with the Watab Pulp and Paper Company. This partnership led to the expansion and modernization of the mill, which became a significant employer in the area.

Sartell saw further growth and development in the mid to late 20th century. The city increased in size with the construction of new residential areas, commercial spaces, and infrastructure. The paper mill also underwent several expansions and updates to keep up with the demand for paper products.

However, tragedy struck Sartell on May 28, 2012, when a large explosion and subsequent fire destroyed the Verso Paper Mill in the city. The explosion resulted in the death of one worker and the closure of the mill, which had been a central part of the community for over a century.

Despite this setback, the city has since recovered and continued to grow. The former mill site has been redeveloped into a mixed-use area known as the “Sartell Paper Mill Site,” which includes a city park, residential and commercial spaces, and a hydroelectric facility.

Today, Sartell remains a thriving community with a mix of industrial, commercial, and residential areas. It is known for its small-town charm, outdoor recreational opportunities, and its location along the banks of the picturesque Mississippi River.

Attractions

Pinecone Central Park

Pinecone Central Park

A beautiful park with walking trails, a fishing pier, playgrounds, and a splash pad.

Sartell City Hall

A historic building with a museum showcasing local artifacts and history.

Val Smith Park

A picturesque park along the Mississippi River, offering picnic areas, a disc golf course, and walking trails.

Wobegon Trail

A popular recreational trail that runs through Sartell, providing opportunities for walking, biking, and inline skating.

Blackberry Ridge Golf Club

A scenic golf course with challenging holes and beautiful views.

GreyStone Golf Club

Another well-regarded golf course in the area, known for its well-manicured greens and enjoyable layout.

Sartell Community Center

A gathering place for community events, including concerts, art exhibits, and other cultural activities.

Rapids Spirits Distillery

A local distillery offering tours and tastings of their handcrafted spirits.

Sartell Family Heritage Museum

A small museum showcasing the history and heritage of Sartell and its residents.

Local Parks and Trails

Sartell has several neighborhood parks and trails throughout the city, offering green spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Climate

Sartell, Minnesota experiences a humid continental climate. Summers in Sartell are warm and humid with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (low 20s to mid-30s Celsius). The city receives a moderate amount of rainfall during this time. Winters, on the other hand, are quite cold, with temperatures ranging from the single digits to low 30s Fahrenheit (around -10 to 0 degrees Celsius). Sartell also receives a significant amount of snowfall during the winter months.

Spring and fall in Sartell are typically mild and transitional seasons, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (5 to 20 degrees Celsius). These seasons can bring some rain and occasional unpredictable weather patterns.

Overall, Sartell experiences notable seasonal variations, with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons. It is advisable to layer clothing appropriately and be prepared for different weather conditions throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

Sartell, Minnesota, is a small city located in central Minnesota, just northwest of St. Cloud. While Sartell itself is not very large, it is divided into several neighborhoods that offer distinctive characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Sartell:

Celebration

Celebration is a newer neighborhood in Sartell, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained homes. It offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, often with modern designs. The neighborhood has parks, walking trails, and a community center.

The Wilds

The Wilds is a scenic neighborhood in Sartell with a mix of residential and natural spaces. It features beautiful homes, often with large lots or proximity to the Mississippi River. The neighborhood offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

Pine Cone Meadows

Pine Cone Meadows is located towards the north of Sartell and is a more established neighborhood. It features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The neighborhood offers easy access to several amenities, including shopping centers, schools, and parks.

Riverside

As the name suggests, Riverside is a neighborhood located along the Mississippi River. It offers stunning river views and a tranquil setting. The area includes a mix of housing options, including riverfront properties and more traditional homes. Residents here enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities.

Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge is a desirable neighborhood in Sartell known for its larger, upscale homes. It offers a suburban, quiet lifestyle while still being close to amenities. Oak Ridge has well-manicured lawns, tree-lined streets, and a friendly community vibe.

South Sartell

South Sartell encompasses various smaller neighborhoods and developments. It includes a mix of housing options such as single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. This area is convenient for commuters as it offers easy access to major highways and is close to downtown St. Cloud.

Each of these neighborhoods in Sartell has its own unique characteristics and amenities, appealing to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly area, access to outdoor activities, or a tranquil setting, you will find a suitable neighborhood in Sartell depending on your preferences.

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