Here stands Richfield. Named for its fertile farmland it beckoned settlers. Richfield began long before suburban homes existed here. Imagine a landscape of rich prairie soil. This richness gave Richfield its very name.
Richfield’s story starts with those fertile fields. It supplied Minneapolis and St. Paul as they grew. In 1908 Richfield became a city. But, its roots go back further. Residents held town meetings as early as May 11, 1858. That was the day Minnesota joined the Union.
In 1950, Richfield changed its government. It adopted a village manager system. Richfield would have a mayor and four council members. Clarence Christian became the first mayor in 1951.
After World War II Richfield boomed. Veterans sought homes. From 1940 to 1960 the population soared. It went from under 10,000 to 42,500. By 1970, it neared 50,000. Airport expansion and smaller families caused the population to level off. It steadied around 35,000.
Today Richfield has about 38,000 residents. They live within seven square miles. Richfield is a mix of neighborhoods and businesses. You’ll find single-family homes plus apartments. Richfield focuses on redevelopment to stay vital. Its location offers many opportunities. Minneapolis and the airport are close. The Mall of America is nearby too.
Despite its urban location Richfield feels like a small town. The pace is easy. The streets are clean. City government is accessible. Community spirit is strong here. Richfield is attractive because of its strong neighborhoods. The public schools are excellent. Infrastructure is established. These things make it a great place for all ages.
Richfield boasts an extensive park system. It offers over 460 acres of parkland. There are 21 neighborhood parks and a nature center. Wood Lake Nature Center is a treasure. It’s a 150-acre preserve. It was also one of Minnesota’s first municipal nature centers.
Best Buy’s headquarters is in Richfield. It’s a Fortune 100 company. It is also Richfield’s top employer.
Richfield was once much larger. In 1858, it stretched over 63 square miles. It included land that is now Minneapolis and Edina. St. Louis Park was also part of it.
Richfield lost territory over time. St. Louis Park became a village in 1886. Edina followed in 1889. Minneapolis annexed portions too. The airport also took up more land.
Richfield is known as Minnesota’s oldest suburb. This claim dates back to the 1820s. At that time, it included Camp Coldwater near Fort Snelling.
So, Richfield stands as a testament to change. It adapted from farmland to suburb. It retains its community feel. It’s a great place to live and work.