Zimmerman, MN
County: Sherburne
History
Zimmerman, Minnesota is a small city located in Sherburne County, in the central part of the state. The town was named after the Zimmerman brothers, namely John and Martin Zimmerman, who were early settlers in the area.
The region where Zimmerman now stands was first settled by Europeans in the mid-19th century. In the 1850s, the Zimmerman brothers originally moved to the area from Pennsylvania, drawn by the prospect of fertile farmland and abundant natural resources. They established a homestead near the present-day city of Zimmerman, gradually attracting other settlers to the region.
Initially, the settlement was known simply as "Zimmerman's," as it was centered around the Zimmerman brothers' farm. With the construction of the Great Northern Railway line in the late 19th century, the area experienced further growth and development. The railroad provided a means of transportation for goods, as well as a connection to other cities in the region.
In 1900, the town's name was officially changed to "Zimmerman" when it was formally incorporated as a village. At that time, the population was around 150 people, and the main economic activities revolved around agriculture, logging, and small industries.
Over the years, Zimmerman continued to grow steadily, particularly after World War II when advancements in transportation and technology allowed for greater connectivity to larger urban centers. The expansion of highways and the increase in personal vehicles made it easier for residents to commute to neighboring cities for work and other opportunities.
Today, Zimmerman is considered a part of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, and many of its residents commute to the nearby cities for employment. The city has a population of approximately 5,000 people and continues to experience growth and development.
Despite its proximity to larger cities, Zimmerman retains a small-town atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its natural surroundings. The city boasts several parks and lakes and hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering a close-knit community spirit.
Overall, Zimmerman's history is rooted in the perseverance and hard work of the Zimmerman brothers and the early settlers who shaped the town into what it is today—a thriving community with a rich history and a promising future.
Attractions
Zimmerman Art Center
A community art center showcasing local artwork and offering art classes.
Lake Fremont
A popular spot for fishing and boating activities.
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
A beautiful nature reserve featuring diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and bird-watching opportunities.
Wild Marsh Golf Club
A scenic, 18-hole golf course offering challenging play and picturesque views.
Milaca Historical Museum
Located nearby in Milaca, this museum exhibits artifacts and displays that showcase the history of the region.
Sherburne County Fair
A yearly event featuring exhibits, livestock shows, carnival rides, and live entertainment.
Oliver Kelley Farm
Located nearby in Elk River, this living history farm provides an interactive experience to visitors, offering insight into Minnesota's agricultural history.
Spectacle Lake Park
A family-friendly park with playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and a swimming beach.
Grandpa's Farm
A seasonal farm offering activities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, farm animals, and corn mazes.
Zimmerman Area Historical Society
This local historical society showcases the history and heritage of Zimmerman through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
Climate
Zimmerman, Minnesota, has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. The area experiences warm summers and cold winters.
Summers in Zimmerman are generally mild to warm, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius). July is the warmest month, with average highs reaching around 82°F (28°C). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures above 90°F (32°C). Summers also see moderate to high humidity levels, along with frequent thunderstorms.
Winters in Zimmerman are cold and can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Average low temperatures in winter range from the single digits to the mid-20s Fahrenheit (-10°C to -4°C). January is the coldest month, with average lows at around 9°F (-13°C). Snowfall is common during winter, with an average of around 45 inches (114 cm) of snow annually.
Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Zimmerman. Spring temperatures gradually warm up, with average highs from the 40s to 60s°F (5°C to 20°C) in April, and the 60s to 70s°F (15°C to 25°C) in May. Autumns are generally mild and pleasant, with average highs in the 60s to 70s°F (15°C to 25°C) in September and cooling down to the 40s to 50s°F (5°C to 15°C) in November.
Overall, Zimmerman experiences a typical Midwest climate, with distinct seasons and moderate precipitation throughout the year. It is important to note that weather patterns and average temperatures can vary from year to year.
Neighborhoods
Zimmerman is a small city located in Sherburne County, Minnesota. While it is not large enough to have distinct neighborhoods, there are a few areas within Zimmerman that offer different characteristics and amenities. Here are some notable features of the different areas:
Downtown Zimmerman
The heart of the city, downtown Zimmerman, consists of small businesses, shops, and restaurants. Historic buildings and tree-lined streets add to the charm. This area is characterized by its friendly community atmosphere and is a hub for local events and festivals.
Residential Areas
Zimmerman has several residential areas scattered throughout the city. These neighborhoods vary in size and architectural styles, ranging from cozy single-family homes to larger, newer developments. Many of these residential areas boast large lots, suburban charm, and a quieter pace of life.
Surrounding Lakes
Zimmerman is surrounded by numerous lakes, including Lake Fremont, Lake Orono, and Lake Leslie, among others. Homes located on the shores of these lakes or with lake access offer residents the opportunity to enjoy water-based activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and beautiful scenic views.
Rural Areas
As you venture outside of the city center, Zimmerman transitions into more rural landscapes, with farmland and open spaces. These areas offer a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle and are popular among those looking for a quieter, rural lifestyle.
Golf Course Communities
Zimmerman is home to several golf courses, including the Princeton Golf Course and the Spectacle Lake Golf Course. Living near these courses offers residents the chance to enjoy golfing facilities, beautiful greens, and a peaceful environment.
Overall, Zimmerman, MN, may not have distinct neighborhoods in the traditional sense, but its small-town charm, surrounding lakes, and variety of residential areas offer residents a diverse range of living options to choose from.