Chisholm, MN a Brief History
The City of Chisholm was incorporated in 1901 and was named in honor of Archibald Mark Chisholm, a principal explorer of the Mesabi Iron Range. Earlier settlers were attracted to the expansive forest of giant pine that once covered the area. Shortly thereafter, several logging camps materialized on the shores of Longyear Lake, named after E.J. Longyear who explored the present site of the city and started the first mine here.
In 1908, a fierce forest fire destroyed the entire business district and two-thirds of the residential homes. The news of this great disaster startled the whole state and there was an instant response for aid by neighboring towns and communities. Working together, new homes, schools, churches, parks, a library, community building and downtown businesses were rebuilt and became the “Cradle of Minnesota’s Mining Heritage.” Today the 1908 buildings in the Chisholm downtown add to the charm of visiting this mining community.
Also present downtown on all of the banners is the face of one of Chisholm’s most famous residents, Dr. Archibald “Moonlight” Graham. Known to many as the character portrayed by Burt Lancaster in the 1989 movie, “The Field of Dreams,” Doc Graham was the community and school doctor for fifty years and appeared as a right fielder in a single major league game for the New York Giants on June 29th 1905. Doc Graham’s house is still standing and can be seen, but his spirit is celebrated every year during the Doc “Moonlight” Graham Days in August.
Don't forget the museums and attractions.
- Minnesota Discovery Center
- Minnesota Mining Museum
- Downtown
- Pillsbury Mine Overlook Park
- Iron Range Research Center
- Chisholm Sports Arena
Reserve your suite or room today and get your adventure started.
Contact us any time!