Learn About Moorhead, Minnesota
Moorhead Overview
City History:
Moorhead is a city located in Clay County, Minnesota, on the eastern border of the state, adjacent to the North Dakota border. The city was founded in 1871 and named after William G. Moorhead, a director of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Moorhead grew rapidly due to its strategic location along the railroad and the Red River. The city has a rich history as a major hub for transportation and agriculture.
Interesting Facts:
- Moorhead is home to Concordia College, a private liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.
- The city is located just across the river from Fargo, North Dakota, and the two cities are known as the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area.
- Moorhead is known for its strong Scandinavian heritage, with many residents tracing their ancestry back to Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland.
Interesting People:
- Larry the Cable Guy, the popular comedian and actor, was born in Moorhead.
- Shjon Podein, a former professional hockey player who won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche, is also from Moorhead.
Top Attractions in Moorhead:
- Hjemkomst Center: A cultural center with exhibits on Scandinavian heritage and a replica Viking ship.
- Rourke Art Museum: A contemporary art museum featuring works by regional and national artists.
- Plains Art Museum: A museum showcasing regional and national contemporary art.
- Bluestem Center for the Arts: An outdoor amphitheater hosting concerts and events.
Top Attractions Nearby:
- Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks: A minor league baseball team based in Fargo.
- Fargo Theatre: A historic theater in downtown Fargo showing classic and indie films.
- Fargo Air Museum: A museum featuring vintage aircraft and aviation history.
Population History:
- Moorhead has a population of around 42,000 residents, making it the largest city in Clay County.
Geography:
- Moorhead is located on the western bank of the Red River, which forms the border between Minnesota and North Dakota.
- The city is characterized by flat terrain and fertile farmland, with the Red River Valley being a major agricultural region.
Economy:
- Moorhead's economy is driven by agriculture, education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- The city is home to several major employers, including American Crystal Sugar Company and Moorhead Public Schools.
Culture:
- Moorhead is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.
- The city hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Greater Moorhead Days celebration and the Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival.
Notable Landmarks:
- The Hjemkomst Center, with its Viking ship replica, is a prominent landmark in Moorhead.
- The historic Moorhead Fargo Bridge, which spans the Red River, is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.
- The campus of Concordia College, with its beautiful architecture and scenic views, is also a notable landmark in the city.