Community

About the Community

Chisago county was organized on September 1, 1851. The name "Chisago" comes from the Chippewa Indian word, "Ki-Chi-Saga", which means "Fair and Lovely Lakes."

The first county election was held on October 14, 1851, with 23 votes cast. The first Board of county Commissioners were: Samuel Thompson, Y.F. Moreton, and N.C.D. Taylor. Commissioner Thompson hosted the first meeting at his home on January 5, 1852. Taylors Falls was chosen as the county Seat. Back then, the courthouse was referred to as the 'Seat of Justice of Chisago county.'

The Courthouse was moved to Chisago city on November 24, 1865. It remained there until 1876, when it was moved to Center city, where it is today. The wood frame courthouse, built in Center city in 1876, stood at the site of the new Government Center until 1990, when it was moved to the grounds of the Almelund Threshing Bee.

Chisago county is currently served by 9 elected officials (Attorney, Auditor, Sheriff, Treasurer, 5 Commissioners), and 9 appointed officials (Assessor, Court Administration, Court Services, Environmental Services / Zoning, Extension, Human Services, Public Works, Recorder, and Veterans Services / Civil Defense).

Chisago county covers an area of 451.66 square miles.

There is an 11 page brochure (PDF) detailing the history of Chisago county and highlighting the various departments is available for your review.

Population Information

The population of Chisago county increased steadily until 1920. From that time until 1960, the population was on a decline. Since then, however, there has been steady growth.

Population figures available are as follows: