Columbus Minnesota

City of Columbus: A Brief History

By David Olson, Realtor · October 23, 2026 · 3 min read
City of Columbus: A Brief History
Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · License #BK3603584
Buying or selling? Call or text 952-314-9446.

The first settlers to live in the area of Columbus village where John Kleiner and J.H. Batzel in 1855. The village was first platted in the spring of 1856 in section 22 by Captain James Starkey and along with fellow commissioner R.C. Knox laid out the St. Paul and Kettle River roads. The village of Columbus continued to grow and by 1857 the village boasted a hotel, store, blacksmith shop, turners shop, wagon maker, gunsmith, twelve dwellings, large schoolhouse, and steam mill. By 1860 the village had a population 119 people.

By the 1880s the logging industry had been depleted and the American Grass Twine Company began to take over as the leading industry in Columbus. The American Grass Twine Company the native wire grass that covered the lowland prairies in the area. This company helped employ 700 to 800 people in their St. Paul factory and 100-250 men in their camps around Columbus.

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

Columbus Township was platted in 1856 with a town organization being a formed a year later in 1857. It remained a township until 2006 when the town petitioned for it to become a city. The Township of Columbus was incorporated as a city on September 2, 2006.

Today the city of Columbus has continued to thrive and experience growth. It is home to 3,971 residents, 1,416 houses, and 1,119 families. Columbus has become an attractive rural community with easy access to all the amenities of a big city. Columbus is also home to numerous businesses, excellent schools, and great people.

If you have any questions regarding the city of Columbus, 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 Columbus Minnesota →

    What could your home sell for today?