Saint Cloud

Saint Cloud
Motto(s):  The Granite City
Area
• Total	77.2 km2 (29.8 sq mi)
Population  (2020)
• Total	68,043
Website	www.ci.stcloud.mn.us

Saint Cloud is a city located in the state of Minnesota, United States. It is the largest city in the central region of the state and serves as the county seat of Stearns County. With a population of 68,043 as of 2020, it is the tenth-largest city in Minnesota.

History

Saint Cloud was founded in 1856 and named after the city of Saint-Cloud in France. The city was originally settled by European immigrants, primarily of German and Scandinavian descent. It quickly grew as a center for the granite industry due to the abundance of granite in the area. The city's nickname, The Granite City, reflects its historical ties to the granite industry.

Geography

Saint Cloud is located on the banks of the Mississippi River and is surrounded by several lakes, including Lake George, Lake Wobegon, and the Horseshoe Chain of Lakes. The city covers a total area of 77.2 square kilometers, with a diverse landscape that includes forests, wetlands, and prairies.

Economy

The economy of Saint Cloud is diverse and includes a mix of industries such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Major employers in the city include the St. Cloud Hospital, St. Cloud State University, and Electrolux Home Products. The city also has a thriving small business community, with many locally-owned shops and restaurants.

Education

Saint Cloud is home to several educational institutions, including St. Cloud State University, which is the largest university in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Other notable educational institutions in the city include St. Cloud Technical & Community College and the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University, which are located nearby.

Culture and Recreation

Saint Cloud offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The city is home to several museums, including the Stearns History Museum and the Minnesota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking in the nearby parks and lakes.

Notable People

Several notable individuals have called Saint Cloud home, including:

• Charles A. Lindbergh - Aviator and the first person to complete a solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean.
• Sinclair Lewis - Nobel Prize-winning author known for his satirical novels.
• Alise Post - Professional BMX racer and Olympic athlete.

External links

• Official website