The city of Brownsville is a beautiful town located along the bluffs of the Mississippi River. Brownsville became the first established town in Minnesota Territory in 1848. Today it is a quaint community with local amenities and activities for residents and visitors traveling the Great River Road on Highway 61.

Brownsville is a bustling community with an average population of 500 residents. In the fall, visitors gather around the town to watch the Tundra Swan migration. Currently, the Brownsville area provides recreation for residents and visitors. Wildcat Landing (owned by Houston County) has a public boat landing and well-maintained, riverside campsite facilities. Up the channel, Lawrence Lake Marina offers bait, boat rentals, boat slips, snacks, fishing licenses, gift store and antiques. To catch a glimpse of Brownsville history, stop at the Community Center during morning hours and check out the Historical Room.

Brownsville is governed by a mayor and four trustees. The city services include a volunteer fire department, first responder unit, Lions club, VFW, VFW auxiliary and other active organizations. Our community is also served by two churches, St. Patrick Catholic Church and Zion Evangelical Church.

History of Brownsville, MN

1848

The location of location Brownsville, and the first village in Houston County, was chosen by Job Brown. The site was chosen for the unique location on the river.

1849

Job and his brother Charles laid the foundation for the beginnings of the City of Brownsville.

1854

Brownsville became the first county seat in Houston County.

1855

The pioneers in Brownsville worked hard but they knew how to have fun. Back in 1855 the Fourth of July was celebrated by barbecuing an ox in a fire pit, by giving speeches and by shooting fireworks. Masquerade dances were popular and a Drama Society entertained by producing plays. There were dances at Odd Fellows Hall and at Germania Hall.

1869-1873

In 1870, the population was recorded to be 1,500 residents in the village and township. The community included 4 churches and over 50 businesses. Due to the location on the Mississippi River, the city thrived as a landing port for transportation boats, fishing & clamming industries.

During the growth of the community, education and religion were not neglected. A brick schoolhouse was built in 1873 and torn down in 1993, with a new Community Center replacing it. The Episcopalian Church of the Holy Comforter, built in 1869, has served as a religious center for almost 100 years. It is open by appointment throughout the year and the church is available for weddings and other appropriate functions for a nominal fee.

1950

The Twentieth Century brought a decline to Brownsville. Fires destroyed buildings, transportation progressed, and several businesses closed their doors. Front Street disappeared in 1950 when Highway 26 was built.

1994-1997

A new Community Center was built on the former school grounds and continues to enjoy constant use. In 1997, Bluffview Manor, a beautiful 12-unit apartment, was constructed for seniors to retire in the comfort of the country.

2012-present

River Station was added to the community providing a new gas station and convenience store for residents and visitors.

The City of Brownsville continues to be a travel destination for bird-watchers, outdoor enthusiasts, boaters, campers, bikers and many others who are drawn to the area’s natural beauty, river access, and small-town charm

** The Story of Brownsville**

Written by: Carol Walhovd & Fern Heiller 

This book is to present The Story of Brownsville from its beginning June of 1849 thru 1976!

Available at the City Office for $20.00

History of the Caves in Brownsville, MN

WXOW News 19 News Broadcast-Cave History

Historical Caves

Historical Caves located along Hwy 26

Fetzner Brewery cave

Located just outside of Brownsville, the Fetzner Brewery cave sits across from a spring-fed creek inside the bluffs, providing a place to refrigerate and ferment barrels of beer.