Northfield is a city in Dakota and Rice counties in the state of Minnesota, USA. Located 35 miles south of Minneapolis, it is part of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. As of the 2020 census, its population was 22,746.
Historically, the area has a strong links to the 18th century Dakota War and the saga of James-Younger Gang. Today, the city is a popular destination for its colleges, restaurants, parks, river, historic sites and related events.
The population of Northfield is estimated to be 23,027 as of 2022. The population density is 2,277.2 people per square mile. There are 7,422 households and 4,561 families living in the city. The racial makeup of Northfield is 84.4% White, 4.7% Asian, 4.5% Black, and 11.2% from other races.
Education:
Northfield is served by two school districts; the Northfield School District and the Faribault School District. The Northfield School District serves approximately 2,500 students in grades PreK-12 and includes Northfield High School, a National Academy Foundation Distinguished School.
Arts and Culture:
Northfield's cultural scene thrives, with numerous artists, art galleries, the Northfield Arts Guild, the Northfield Historical Society, the Northfield Youth Choirs, and the Minnesota Boychoir. The Paramount Theatre hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other performances.
Events:
The town hosts annual events such as the Northfield Dandelion Festival, the St. Olaf Band Festival, and the Defeat of Jesse James Days in September.
Local Attractions:
Northfield features the Northfield Historical Society's historical museum, the Scriver Building, and the Thomas A. Scott collection. East of downtown Northfield, the western trailhead of the Mill Towns State Trail is located in the city. Heldrich Park and Memory Park are popular sites.
Food:
Outstate visitors praise the treats they discover while dining in Northfield. Restaurants and cafés serve traditional Midwestern dishes such as homemade pies, breakfast food, pizza, steak, and pancakes.
People:
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 22,746 people in the city. The population density was 2,277.2 people per square mile. There were 7,422 households and 4,561 families in the city.
History:
The area was recognized as part of the large Ojibwe nation at one time. The city is also the site of the James-Younger Gang's attempted bank robbery, immortalized in the movie The Great Northfield, Minnesota Raid. The Dakota War of 1862 was a fight between the Santee Dakota, led by Little Crow, and the settlers and militia of the towns in the Minnesota River Valley.
In conclusion, Northfield is famous for its diverse cuisine, rich history, and cultural vibes. It is a place you will want to visit due to its unique atmosphere and lively culture.