kids encyclopedia robot

Nowthen, Minnesota facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Nowthen
Motto(s): 
"Where It Still Feels Like Country."
Location of the city of Nowthenwithin Anoka County, Minnesota
Location of the city of Nowthen
within Anoka County, Minnesota
Country United States
State Minnesota
County Anoka
Incorporated 2008
Area
 • Total 35.19 sq mi (91.15 km2)
 • Land 33.66 sq mi (87.17 km2)
 • Water 1.54 sq mi (3.98 km2)
Elevation
925 ft (282 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total 4,536
 • Density 134.78/sq mi (52.04/km2)
Time zone UTC-6 (Central (CST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-5 (CDT)
Area code(s) 763
FIPS code 27-47536
GNIS feature ID 2437910
Website https://www.cityofnowthen.com/[1]

Nowthen is a small city located in Anoka County, Minnesota, in the United States. In 2020, about 4,536 people lived there. Nowthen is known for its friendly, country-like feel.

Where is Nowthen Located?

Nowthen is in the northwestern part of Anoka County. It covers about 35 square miles (91 square kilometers). Most of this area is land, with a small part being water.

The city is about 12 miles northwest of Anoka. You can reach Nowthen using Minnesota State Highway 47 and County Road 22.

Nearby towns include St. Francis, Oak Grove, and Elk River.

A Look at Nowthen's History

Nowthen has an interesting past. It used to be called Burns Township. In 1869, it separated from St. Francis Township.

The community officially became the city of Nowthen on June 30, 2008. Residents decided to become a city to prevent other nearby cities from taking over their land.

The name "Nowthen" comes from an old community within the township. The first postmaster, James Hare, often said "Now, then" when he talked. People started calling the area "Nowthen" because of him!

How Many People Live in Nowthen?

Nowthen has grown quite a bit over the years. Here's how its population has changed:

Historical population
Census Pop.
1870 340
1880 522 53.5%
1890 650 24.5%
1900 920 41.5%
1910 926 0.7%
1920 974 5.2%
1930 899 −7.7%
1940 868 −3.4%
1950 806 −7.1%
1960 966 19.9%
1970 1,129 16.9%
1980 1,976 75.0%
1990 2,429 22.9%
2000 3,557 46.4%
2010 4,443 24.9%
2020 4,536 2.1%
U.S. Decennial Census

Nowthen's Population in 2010

In 2010, there were 4,443 people living in Nowthen. Most residents were White. A small number of people were African American, Native American, or Asian.

The average age in the city was about 40 years old. Many families with children lived in Nowthen. About 28% of residents were under 18 years old.

Keeping Nowthen Safe

Nowthen works to keep its community safe. For many years, the Anoka County Sheriff's Office helped with law enforcement.

In 2011, the city decided not to pay for extra non-emergency police services. This meant the Sheriff's Office would only handle emergencies. The city chose not to create its own police force at that time.

Nowthen's Fire Department

Nowthen built its very first fire department in 2021. Before this, the city relied on fire services from nearby towns.

The city of Ramsey used to provide fire services. Nowthen decided to start its own department to save money.

Nowthen received a fire engine, tanker, and other equipment from Ramsey. They also gained a fire station to use. The city of St. Francis helps oversee the new department.

The Nowthen Fire Department started with 12 members. They plan to have more firefighters join their team.

Fun Things to Do in Nowthen

Nowthen has several places for fun and recreation.

City Parks in Nowthen

The city has two main parks: Nowthen Memorial Park and Twin Lakes City Park.

Nowthen Memorial Park offers many sports fields. You can play baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, and basketball. There's also a playground, picnic areas, and a walking path.

Twin Lakes City Park is great for water activities. It has a beach, a fishing pier, and a boat dock. You can also play sand volleyball or walk on the paths. The park has picnic shelters with grills. A new disc golf course is also available for everyone to enjoy.

Churches in the Community

Nowthen Alliance Church is the largest church in the city. It is part of the Christian and Missionary Alliance group. You can find it where Nowthen Boulevard and Viking Boulevard meet.

The Nowthen Threshing Show

One of the most popular events is the Nowthen Threshing Show. This annual event has been happening for over 40 years!

It takes place for three days in August. The show celebrates the past with many exciting attractions. You can see tractor pulls and listen to music. There are also sawmill demonstrations and blacksmithing.

Visitors can explore old restored buildings. These include a town church, a general store, and a train depot. You can also see a log cabin, a log barn, and an old one-room schoolhouse. Many antique machines and tractors are on display. The show's motto is "Bringing the Past to the Present."

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Nowthen (Minnesota) para niños

kids search engine
Nowthen, Minnesota Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.