Last updated on May 9th, 2024
53. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Established in 1988, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a sprawling 11-acre urban oasis renowned for its remarkable collection of sculptures. One of its highlights is the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, an iconic symbol of the city’s dedication to public art.
54. Industrialization of Minnesota
With the participation of the United States in World War II, the state’s economic situation began to change due to the high demand for wheat and iron produced in the region. On the other hand, the war also contributed to the industrialization of the state.
55. Economic contribution after World War I
At the end of World War I, Minnesota contributed approximately 70% of the production of iron ore for the United States.
56. Tonka Trucks
Mound, Minnesota, is the birthplace of Tonka Trucks, the beloved toy construction vehicle for kids, since their creation in 1947.
57. Tax-free shopping in the largest mall
Minnesota is a dream for anyone who loves shopping. It is home to the largest mall and entertainment center in the United States – Mall of America. Shoppers can take advantage of zero tax on the sale of clothing or footwear, so it is a shopping paradise.
58. A theme park in a mall
In the Mall of America, you will find the Sea life Aquarium and the Nickelodeon Universe amusement park. That is correct, a theme park is located inside the mall. Additionally, it has SpongeBob attractions, Rock Bottom Immersion, Air bender and Avatar among others that the little ones will love.
59. World’s largest candy sculpture
Mall of America also proudly hosts the world’s largest candy sculpture, entirely made of PEZ candies, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors.
60. World’s largest collection of Pez dispensers
In Burlingame, California, the Burlingame Pez Museum, opened in 1995, showcases the world’s largest collection of Pez dispensers, initiated by a passionate Minnesotan collector.
61. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store
Opening its doors in Jordan, Minnesota, Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store has been a sugary haven since 1972.
62. “Flour Power: The Enduring Legacy of Minneapolis’ Pillsbury A-Mill in the Skyline”
The Pillsbury A-Mill, once the world’s largest flour mill for 40 years, graces the Minneapolis skyline as a historic landmark. Its iconic status pays homage to the city’s industrial heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its pivotal role in shaping the region’s economic development.
63. Cultural capital
The Twin Cities area is considered the cultural capital of the region. This is largely due to a large number of institutes, universities, and a generally strong economy.
64. “Minnesota Nice”
It is a term which epitomizes Minnesotans’ genuine friendliness and courtesy, reflecting the state’s cultural values. It’s not just a stereotype but a testament to the warm and welcoming nature that characterizes the people of Minnesota.
65. Minnesota inventions
This list of facts about Minnesota would not be complete unless the state’s important contributions are mentioned. Minnesota has contributed many inventions in various fields, including medicines and apparel. Its notable achievements include Scotch tape, Better Business Bureau, automatic pop-up toaster, in-the-ear Hearing Aid and more.
66. Rollerblades were invented here
In 1980, Minneapolis, Minnesota, became the birthplace of Rollerblades, the innovative inline skates that two students Scott Olson and Brennan Olson invented. Their creation revolutionized recreational sports, transforming the concept of roller skating into a dynamic and thrilling experience.
67. The Bundt pan
David Dalquist, a Minnesotan, invented the Bundt pan in 1950, leading to the creation of the famous Bundt cake and influencing baking traditions worldwide.
68. “From War Rations to Culinary Icon”
In 1937, the Hormel Foods Corporation introduced Spam, a canned meat product, in Austin, Minnesota. Originally created for convenience and longevity, Spam gained immense popularity during World War II.
69. The iconic Green Giant brand
Originating in Le Sueur, Minnesota, the iconic Green Giant brand of vegetables was founded in 1903. It symbolizes quality and freshness and is a testament to Minnesota’s agricultural heritage and commitment to delivering premium produce.
70. “Revolutionizing Winter Mobility: The Birth of the Snowmobile in Roseau, Minnesota”
The snowmobile, a crucial winter vehicle, was introduced by Edgar and Allen Hetteen and David Johnson in Roseau, Minnesota border, in 1955.
71. Water skiing was invented here
In 1922, Ralph Samuelson of Lake City, Minnesota, invented water skiing on the calm waters of Lake Pepin. Using makeshift skis attached to his feet, he became the first to successfully ski behind a motorboat, pioneering a thrilling water sport.
72. First inhabitants to manufacture metal tools
The inhabitants of the area around Lake Superior were the first to manufacture metal tools in the continent. The high copper content was worked by hammering it into a rough shape and heated making the metal tougher. Both copper ores and tools were exchanged throughout the region.
73. The first military installation
Fort San Antonio (later called Fort Snelling) is Minnesota’s first military installation. It was built in 1819 and, Mendota, the first large settlement was developed in its vicinity. With the establishment in 1834 of the main commercial factory of the American Leather Company in Mendota, the fort became the main settlement of north-western America.
74. World’s first organized cheerleading event
In 1898, the University of Minnesota hosted the world’s first organized cheerleading event, marking the beginning of a spirited tradition. This pivotal moment brought enthusiastic students together to support their teams, laying the foundation for the global phenomenon of cheerleading seen in sports events today.
75. The Metrodome
The Metrodome in Minneapolis has the distinction of being the only stadium to host three notable sporting events. These include an NCAA Final Four Basketball Championship, a World Series and a Super Bowl.
76. Pioneering Legacy with bookstores
Established in 1970, The Way in Minneapolis was among the first black-owned bookstores in the United States. This pioneering establishment offered a diverse selection of literature and served as a vital community hub, fostering cultural pride and intellectual discourse.
77. One of the first states to support the Union
Minnesota was one of the first states to support the Union during the Civil War. It is around this time that the state government and some railway companies were interested in attracting people to the state territories.
78. Battle of Lake Woods (1862)
More than 500 American settlers and soldiers died before the decisive defeat of the Sioux in the Battle of Lake Woods (1862), after which the Siux lost ownership of the land.
79. World’s first water ski jumping event
In 1925, Lake City, Minnesota, made history by hosting the world’s first water ski jumping event on Lake Pepin. This ground breaking moment marked the birth of an exhilarating water sport, inspiring generations of enthusiasts and setting the stage for the evolution of water-skiing.
80. Official state muffin
In 1988, Minnesota designated the blueberry muffin as its official state muffin, celebrating its agricultural heritage and baking traditions. This delectable choice honors local farmers and bakers, symbolizing both flavor and community pride.
81. Official state drink
In 1984, Minnesota declared milk its official state drink, honoring its rich dairy farming heritage. This recognition stands as a tribute to the nutritional significance of milk and the hard work of local farmers.
82. Official state mushroom
In 1984, Minnesota designated the morel mushroom (Morchella esculenta) as its official state mushroom.
83. Official state gemstone
In 1969, Minnesota designated the Lake Superior Agate as its state gemstone, captivated by its vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
84. Minnesota’s state flower
The Pink and White Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium reginae) was designated as Minnesota’s state flower in 1902, symbolizing the state’s natural beauty and unique flora.
85. Famous musical acts
The state has contributed to music in America. Some of its notable acts include The Replacements, Hüsker Dü, Bob Dylan and Prince.
86. Symbol of poetic inspiration
In 1855, Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s renowned poem “The Song of Hiawatha,” published the same year. Longfellow’s masterpiece, deeply influenced by the falls’ beauty, immortalized the enchanting cascade in the realms of literature, making Minnehaha Falls a cherished symbol of poetic inspiration.
87. The largest regional theatre
The Guthrie Theatre, which opened doors to the public in 1963 is undoubtedly the largest regional theatre.
88. Gastronomy
The state has a long culinary tradition. It is regarded as the nation’s barn thanks to a remarkable production of wheat, pig and dairy products. There are more than 1,000 restaurants throughout the State.
89. Pizza farms
Would you like to eat a pizza on a farm? It is possible in many parts of MN, there are farms like Red Bern Farm in Northfield that provide the ideal setting to taste them. They are not pizzerias and the customers have to bring utensils: dishes, drinks, and even a blanket to sit on a picnic.
About the flag of Minnesota
1. Design and Symbolism
The flag of Minnesota is a showcase of culture, history, and industry. The colorful visuals tell a compelling story in vivid detail.
Like many other state flags, it features the state seal on a blue background. The thick white border has gold trim. Inside, clusters of stars depict Minnesota as the 19th state to be admitted after the original 13 states. Its name appears in red.
The center of the seal is a busy mosaic. A Native American rides a horse in the distance to honor the state’s heritage. The sun sets on the plains that cover most of Minnesota. The new design also includes the Mississippi River and St. Anthony falls to underscore their importance to early settlers.
Meanwhile, a pioneer plows the field in the foreground to signify the importance of agriculture. A tree stump shows how settlers tamed the wild land. Pine trees represent the regions of St. Croix, Lake Superior, and Mississippi.
Surrounding the image is the state flower, commonly known as pink-and-white lady slippers. The date of statehood, 1858, appears at the top of the seal. A red ribbon snakes across the scene carrying the words “L’Etoile Du Nord” (The Star of the North), “1819” (the establishment of Fort Snelling), and “1893” (the year of statehood).
2. Adoption
Minnesota adopted the current flag on August 2, 1983. It uses the design of Amelia Hyde Carter.
3. Technical Details
The flag has a proportion of 3:7. There are five clusters of stars, with most having four and the top cluster having three. One is larger than the rest to represent Minnesota.
4. History
Civil War Flags
Minnesota did not have an official flag during the outbreak of the Civil War. Each of its 11 regiments carried a unique banner, typically with a blue field and an American Eagle or a State Seal.
The 1893 Flag
Gov. William Merriam went all-out preparing for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, where Minnesota was sponsoring an exhibition. The Women’s Auxiliary Board held a flag design contest and got 200 entries from the public. Amelia Hyde Center won $15 for her effort. Her design had white and blue sides, with moccasin flowers adorning the seal.
The 1957 Flag
Minnesota redesigned the flag for the 1958 centennial with a single color for both sides. It made it more practical and durable. The flowers also changed to the native Pink-and-White Lady’s Slipper.
The 1983 Seal Change
Minnesota changed the seal design, so the flag had to reflect that. The background became paler, going from royal blue to medium blue.
5. Flag Restrictions
The Minnesota flag must rise above the State Capitol from sunrise to sunset.
When folded for display, do it lengthwise four times from each side. The resulting triangle must show the motto “L’Etoile du Nord” in front. When folding for storage, apply the same method used for the national flag.
Desecrating the state flag is considered a misdemeanor. It should not be mutilated or defiled. It cannot figure in advertising.
6. Other Flags
The North Star Flag
Over the years, people have tried to change the flag design saying that the current one is overly complicated and problematic in its use of Native American symbols.
In 1989, William Becker and Lee Harold proposed the North Star Flag as a replacement. It has a blue field representing bodies of water and a golden star at the upper left to symbolize the state’s natural resources. A wavy white band signifies winter, while the green below is the farmland and forests. The design won in an unofficial contest but was never adopted.
Minnesota – quick facts and state symbols
| State Abbreviation | MN |
|---|---|
| State Capital | St. Paul |
| Largest City | Minneapolis |
| State Size | Total (Land + Water): 86,939 sq miles; Land Only: 79,610 sq miles |
| Population | 5,737,915 (Estimate July 1, 2023 from United States Census Bureau) |
| Statehood | May 11, 1858 |
| State rank by population | 22nd |
| State rank by date of formation | 32nd |
| State rank by area | 12th |
| Number of Counties | 87 |
| Demonym | Minnesotan |
| Bordering States | Iowa, Michigan (water border), North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin |
| Official Language | None |
| Highest Point | Eagle Mountain 2,301 ft (701 m) |
| Lowest point | Lake Superior 602[4] ft (183 m) |
| Length | c. 400 miles (c. 640 km) |
| Width | c. 200–351 miles (c. 320–560 km) |
| Governor | Tim Walz (DFL) |
| Lieutenant Governor | Peggy Flanagan (DFL) |
| Electoral Votes | 10 |
| State Motto | L'Étoile du Nord (The star of the North) |
| State Nickname | North Star State; Gopher State; Land of 10,000 Lakes |
| % Water | 8.40 |
| Nobel Prize Winners | Brian Kobilka (Chemistry, 2012) Randy W. Schekman (Physiology or Medicine, 2013) Bob Dylan (Literature, 2016) Sinclair Lewis (Literature, 1930) Melvin Calvin (Chemistry, 1961) Peter Agre (Chemistry, 2003) |
| Famous people | Dave Caspe (Pro Football player) Paul Molitor (Baseball player) Kevin McHale (Basketball player) Phil Housley (Hockey player) Jessica Biel (Actress) Bob Dylan (Singer) |
| Reptile | Blanding's Turtle |
| Mushroom | Morel |
| State Muffin | Blueberry muffin |
| State fish | Walleye |
| State Bird | Common loon |
| Gemstone | Lake Superior agate |
| State Flower | Pink-and-white lady's slipper |
| State Tree | Norway pine |
| Butterfly | Monarch |
| Longitude | 89° 29′ W to 97° 14′ W |
| Latitude | 43° 30′ N to 49° 23′ N |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone |
| Website | mn.gov |
| Area Codes | 218, 320, 507, 612, 651, 763, 952 |
| Table last updated | June 27, 2024 |