Keewatin is a city in Clay County, in the U.S. state of Minnesota. It is part of the Fargo–Moorhead, ND-MN Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 United States Census, the city had a population of 1,064 residents.
Geography
Keewatin lies in western Minnesota, approximately 17 miles (27 km) north of the city of Moorhead. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city encompasses a total area of 0.65 square miles (1.68 km²), all of which is land. The city is situated at an elevation of roughly 1,122 feet (342 m) above sea level and is traversed by County Road 26.
History
The community was platted in 1887 concurrent with the extension of the Great Northern Railway through the area. The name “Keewatin” derives from the Cree word kîwêtin meaning “the north,” a designation also used for a historic district in Canada. The post office was established in 1887 and has operated continuously since that time. Keewatin was incorporated as a village in 1901 and later as a city.
Demographics
2020 Census
- Population: 1,064
- Population density: approximately 1,637 persons per square mile (632 persons per km²)
The racial composition was reported as predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and individuals of two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents accounted for a modest proportion of the total population.
Economy
Keewatin's economy is primarily residential with local businesses providing goods and services to the community and surrounding agricultural region. Many residents commute to larger employment centers within the Fargo–Moorhead metropolitan area.
Education
The city is served by the Clay County School District 1 (also known as Moorhead Area Public Schools). Students attend elementary, middle, and high schools in nearby Moorhead. There are no higher‑education institutions located within Keewatin itself.
Transportation
Keewatin is accessible via County Road 26, which connects to Minnesota State Highway 9 and U.S. Route 75. The nearest major airport is Fargo‑Hector International Airport, located approximately 30 miles (48 km) south in Fargo, North Dakota.
Notable people
- Tammy Miller, former member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, was born in Keewatin.
References
- United States Census Bureau, 2020 Decennial Census.
- Minnesota Historical Society, place‑name origins.
- City of Keewatin official records.