My Local Guide

River Communities With Long Local Memories

Wabasha County, Minnesota

Wabasha County occupies southeastern Minnesota along the Mississippi River and Wisconsin border. Its historical society at Reads Landing preserves the area’s natural and cultural history, offering a local perspective on a county that dates to the earliest organization of Minnesota Territory. Reads Landing gives those broad themes a specific place. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated 21,537 residents in Wabasha County, Minnesota, on July 1, 2025.

Wabasha County at a Glance

Population21,537 (July 1, 2025 Census estimate)
County SeatWabasha
Largest MunicipalityLitchfield
Established1849
ZIP Codes12
Total Area, Including Water549.515 square miles, including water (2020 Census geography)
Major RoutesI-55 - IL-16 - IL-127
Area Codes217
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Greenfield County courthouse
Discover Wabasha County

Wabasha County

Wabasha County was established in 1849 as one of Minnesota Territory's original nine counties. Its eastern river boundary links the county's geography to a much wider Mississippi corridor. At Reads Landing, the county historical society collects and interprets evidence of both natural and cultural history. That combination is useful: the county's story is not limited to government dates, but includes the relationship between a distinctive landscape and the people whose lives and work became part of it.

Make the historical society at Reads Landing a research starting point, then connect its local stories with the broader river setting. The city of Wabasha's own historical resources offer another perspective on community development. Check museum access before visiting, and choose specific river destinations through their current public information. A county itinerary can follow the Mississippi while still making room for the different identities of individual towns and historical places.

What Shapes Us

Place And Character

Its historical society at Reads Landing preserves the area's natural and cultural history, offering a local perspective on a county that dates to the earliest organization of Minnesota Territory.

The Local Story

Wabasha County was established in 1849 as one of Minnesota Territory's original nine counties. Its eastern river boundary links the county's geography to a much wider Mississippi corridor.

Explore The County

Make the historical society at Reads Landing a research starting point, then connect its local stories with the broader river setting.

Follow the river and keep local memories in view.
MPR News — Minnesota

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Democratic nominee Peggy Flanagan and Republican nominee Michele Tafoya appear at noon Friday in their only scheduled debate…

Read the Story Oct 16, 2026 • 2 min read
Big Bear Pizzeria — view business
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Support the businesses that help make our communities thrive. From family-owned shops and restaurants to trusted local services, discover businesses worth visiting throughout the county.

County Resources

Find the Right Local Connection

Start with the organization responsible for the service you need. Follow its official link for current requirements, office locations and availability.

Government Resources

Montgomery County Administration

Find information about county leadership, departments, and public services.

(217) 532-9530

montgomerycountyil.gov

County Clerk's Office

Vital records, elections, licenses, and official documents.

(217) 532-9531

montgomerycountyil.gov/clerk

County Treasurer

Property taxes, payments, and financial services.

(217) 532-9525

montgomerycountyil.gov/treasurer

Building & Zoning Department

Permits, inspections, zoning, and property information.

(217) 532-3941

montgomerycountyil.gov/building-zoning

Health Department

Community health programs, services, and resources.

(217) 532-5541

montgomeryco.com/health

County Extension Office

Agriculture, community education, and youth programs.

(217) 532-3941

extension.illinois.edu

Get to Know Wabasha County

Useful answers for residents, visitors and anyone planning their next step.

Local Questions

Wabasha County Questions, Answered

Explore practical details about the county and the organizations that serve it.

21,537 (July 1, 2025 Census estimate). This is a dated Census Bureau estimate, rather than a live resident count.

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