St. Francis Minnesota

City of St. Francis: A Brief History

By David Olson, Realtor · October 23, 2026 · 2 min read
City of St. Francis: A Brief History
Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · License #BK3603584
Buying or selling? Call or text 952-314-9446.

Some of the first inhabitants to settle in the area that is now St. Francis were George Armsby, E. Fowler, and Ezra Randall in 1855. The area was known as St. Francis Township, which was named after St. Francis Assisi. In 1855 Dwight Woodbury came to the area and bought large tracts of land that he used to build a dam, grist, and sawmill. In 1857 Saint Francis Township was organized.

The village of Saint Francis began to grow when Woodbury built a larger mill in the area in 1888 called the Saint Francis Flour Milling Company. By 1933 several other businesses were thriving including a blacksmith shop, drug store, meat store, and general store. St. Francis was incorporated as a village on May 16, 1962 and remained a village until 1974 when it became a city.

What’s my home worth?A clear, local estimate for your street, not just the city.

Today, the city of Saint Francis is a thriving community that has experienced much growth since it’s incorporation. The city of Saint Francis has seen an increase in population from 897 in 1970 to over 7,300 today. It is home to over 2,500 houses and 1,900 families. The city has become an attractive destination to live because of it’s big town atmosphere in a rural community. It’ convenient location and strong community make the city of St. Francis a great place to call home.

If you have any questions regarding the city of St. Francis, Minnesota, or if you would like to sell or buy a house in the area, please feel free to visit TwinCitiesPropertyFinder.com or call 1-800-909-1953.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with buyers and sellers, and that’s where I can help you most.

Market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look. Sign up and you’ll also get this guide as a PDF to keep.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. Your PDF copy of this guide is ready below, and a quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David
    Download this guide (PDF)

    Thinking about buying or selling here?

    Get a clear plan from a Realtor who knows these neighborhoods inside and out. Pick the easiest way to reach David.

    Keep exploring

    More in St. Francis Minnesota →

    What could your home sell for today?