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Coordinates: 45°7′2″N 93°23′58″W / 45.11722°N 93.39944°W / 45.11722; -93.39944
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{{short description|Town in Minnesota, United States}}
'''Osseo''' is a city in [[Hennepin County, Minnesota|Hennepin County]], [[Minnesota]], [[United States]]. The population was 2,434 at the 2000 census.
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox settlement
|official_name = Osseo
|settlement_type = [[City]]
|nickname =
|motto =
|image_skyline = File:Osseo City Hall & Library.jpg
|imagesize =
|image_caption = Osseo City Hall and Library
|image_flag =
|image_seal =
|image_map = Hennepin_County_Minnesota_Incorporated_and_Unincorporated_areas_Osseo_Highlighted.svg
|mapsize = 250px
|map_caption = Location of the city of Osseo<br />within [[Hennepin County, Minnesota|Hennepin County]], Minnesota
|image_map1 =
|mapsize1 =
|map_caption1 =
|subdivision_type = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
|subdivision_name = United States
|subdivision_type1 = [[U.S. state|State]]
|subdivision_name1 = [[Minnesota]]
|subdivision_type2 = [[List of counties in Minnesota|County]]
|subdivision_name2 = [[Hennepin County, Minnesota|Hennepin]]
|government_type =
|leader_title = [[Mayor]]
|leader_name = Duane Poppe
|established_title = Founded
|established_title2 = [[Municipal incorporation|Incorporated]]
|established_date = 1875
|established_date2 =
|area_magnitude =
|area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2020">{{cite web|title=2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2020_Gazetteer/2020_gaz_place_27.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=July 24, 2022}}</ref>
|area_total_km2 = 1.92
|area_total_sq_mi = 0.74
|area_land_km2 = 1.92
|area_land_sq_mi = 0.74
|area_water_km2 = 0.00
|area_water_sq_mi = 0.00
|area_water_percent =
|area_urban_km2 =
|area_urban_sq_mi =
|area_metro_km2 =
|area_metro_sq_mi =
|unit_pref = Imperial
|population_as_of = [[2020 United States Census|2020]]
|population_total = 2688
|population_note =
|pop_est_as_of =
|population_est =
|pop_est_footnotes =
|population_metro =
|population_urban =
|population_density_km2 = 1398.08
|population_density_sq_mi = 3622.64
|timezone = [[Central Time Zone|Central]]
|utc_offset = −6
|timezone_DST = Central
|utc_offset_DST = −5
|coordinates = {{coord|45|7|2|N|93|23|58|W|type:city_region:US-MN|display=title,inline}}
|elevation_m = 270
|elevation_ft = 886
|website = {{URL|www.discoverosseo.com}}
|postal_code_type = [[ZIP Code]]s
|postal_code = 55311, 55369
|area_code = [[Area code 763|763]]
|blank_name = [[Federal Information Processing Standard|FIPS code]]
|blank_info = 27-49012<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=January 31, 2008|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref>
|blank1_name = [[Geographic Names Information System|GNIS]] feature ID
|blank1_info = 0649024<ref name="GR3">{{cite web|url=http://geonames.usgs.gov|access-date=January 31, 2008|title=US Board on Geographic Names|publisher=[[United States Geological Survey]]|date=October 25, 2007}}</ref>
|footnotes =
|population_footnotes =
}}

'''Osseo''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɒ|s|i|.|oʊ}} {{Respell|OSS|ee|oh}})<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ap.org/minnesota/prono.html |title=Minnesota Pronunciation Guide |website=[[Associated Press]] |access-date=July 4, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722194213/http://www.ap.org/minnesota/prono.html |archive-date=July 22, 2011 }}</ref> is a small city in [[Hennepin County, Minnesota|Hennepin County]], [[Minnesota]], United States. As of the [[2020 United States Census]], it has a population of 2,688.<ref name="Census 2020">{{cite web|title=United States Census Bureau: Osseo city, Minnesota|url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=1600000US2749012|access-date=|publisher=U.S. Census Bureau}}</ref>

==Etymology==
It is said that "Osseo" derives from the [[Ojibwe]] name ''"Waaseyaa"'' meaning "There is light", more commonly translated as "Son of the Evening Star". [[Henry Wadsworth Longfellow]] uses the word "Osseo" in his poem ''[[The Song of Hiawatha]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theotherpages.org/poems/hiawatha.html|title=Poets' Corner - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow - The Song of Hiawatha|website=www.theotherpages.org|access-date=May 8, 2019}}</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==
Osseo is in northeastern Hennepin County, bordered by [[Brooklyn Park, Minnesota|Brooklyn Park]] to the east and [[Maple Grove, Minnesota|Maple Grove]] to the west. It has an area of {{convert|1.8|sqkm|order=flip}}, all land.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Map Sof|url=https://www.mapsof.net/osseo|access-date=November 3, 2021}}</ref>
[[Image:MNMap-doton-Osseo.png|right|Location of Osseo, Minnesota]]

According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], the city has a total area of 2.0 [[km²]] (0.8 [[square mile|mi²]]), all land.
There are three main transportation routes in the city. Jefferson Highway runs straight north/south through the city; the business stretch is Central Avenue. [[U.S. Route 169 in Minnesota|U.S. Highway 169]] follows the eastern boundary. Bottineau Boulevard ([[County Road 81 (Hennepin County, Minnesota)|County Road 81]]) runs northwest through the city.

==History==
[[File:Osseo, Minnesota in 1869.jpg|thumb|Osseo in 1869]]
The area that is now Osseo was settled before organized local government. It was on what [[Pierre Bottineau]] named Bottineau Prairie in 1852; the community was called Palestine. In 1856 part of the town was platted as Osseo and another part as "City of Attraction".<ref name=":0">{{Cite book |title=1852-1952 History of 100 Years of Osseo and Souvenir of the Dedication of the New Rectory and Parochial School |last=Boerboom |first=Reverend Henry J. |publisher=Engravings by E. J. Krueger. Weston Engraving Company, Minneapolis |year=1952 |pages=9}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=History of Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis including the Explorers and Pioneers of Minnesota (By Rev. D. Neill) and Outlines of the History of Minnesota, (by J. Fletcher Williams) |last4=Warner| first4=Geo. E. |first1=Chas. M.| last1=Foote| last2=Neill| first2=Edward| first3=J. Fletcher| last3=Williams |location=Minneapolis |publisher=North Star Publishing Company |year=1881 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jMrn0Jfwcc0C&q=hennepin+county+minnesota+history&pg=PA276 |pages=294–297}}</ref> Official Minnesota Territory surveys placed the settlement on the border of two townships. When Brooklyn Township and Maple Grove Township organized, Osseo (and City of Attraction, which later merged) was governed by those two governments. Osseo incorporated on March 17, 1875.<ref>{{Cite book |title=Village of Osseo Minute Book |last=Ewing |first=Clerk Wm. |location=Osseo City Hall, Osseo, Minnesota (accessed Fall, 2008)}}</ref>

The ethnic groups that moved in after Native tribes were removed were mostly French Canadians, New Englanders, Swiss and Germans.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MKNF-J3Y|title=Minnesota State Census, 1875|date=November 15, 2014|website=Family Search}}</ref> The pioneers' businesses included blacksmiths, wagonmakers, general merchandise stores, boots & shoemakers, harness makers, tin shops, cordwood suppliers, teamsters, saloons, and hotels (Niggler Hotel, 1867; International Hotel, 1874; Great Northern Hotel, 1907).<ref name=":1">{{Cite book |title=100 Year History of the City of Osseo; Osseo Centennial 1875 - 1975. Souvenir Edition |author1=North Hennepin Pioneer Society |author2=Osseo Lionelles |publisher=Merit Printing, Minneapolis |year=1975 |location=Minnesota Historical Society |pages=6, 8}}</ref> There was also a Catholic church (1858), a physician, school, post office, and calaboose (jail). Methodists and Lutherans were served in their homes until the 20th century.

In 1882 the [[Great Northern Railway (U.S.)|Great Northern Railroad]] "came steaming through town", and in 1893 a telephone station appeared. A town hall was built in 1901. The city water system and fire department began in 1915. The original Indian trail—extending from St. Paul to [[St. Cloud, Minnesota|St. Cloud]]—was the town's main street, and was paved in 1918 (Territorial Road). Osseo Lutheran Church was built around 1915; the Methodist Church was built in 1922. The first Osseo High School was built in 1924. 1928 was the peak when "Osseo had one of the largest potato markets in the Northwest."<ref name=":0" />

A newspaper article written upon the death of John Hechtman, "The Father of Osseo", informs the reader of Osseo's opportunities and social organizations of his time.<ref>[http://newspapers2.mnhs.org/jsp/viewer.jsp?doc_id=mnhi0005%2F1DFC5F5A%2F02102201&query1=&recoffset=0&collection_filter=All&collection_name=325d007e-ad78-4323-8722-61ce43c3b6d1&sort_col=relevance&cnt=0&CurSearchNum=1&recOffset=0 ''Minneapolis Tribune'', October 22, 1902].</ref>

Opposite today's City Hall are memorials to US military veterans from Osseo. In 1937 a large granite monument was erected in memory of [[American Civil War|Civil War]] soldiers. On Memorial Day 1945 another Honor Roll was constructed of granite with a bronze plate engraved with names of those who served during the [[Spanish–American War]], World War I and World War II. In 1957 the memorial area was named Father Boerboom Park, after a pastor of St. Vincent Rectory and the principal of its parochial school who had served since 1917.<ref name=":1" />

The [[Osseo Water Tower]], built in 1915, was listed on the [[National Register of Historic Places]] in 2017.<ref name="strib">{{cite news|url=http://www.startribune.com/osseo-water-tower-primed-for-position-on-national-historic-register/409966975/|title=Osseo water tower primed for position on national historic register|author=Eric Roper|newspaper=Minneapolis Star Tribune|date=January 7, 2017|access-date=February 22, 2018}}</ref>

== Government ==
Osseo incorporated in 1875 as a village and became a statutory city in 1972. The city council comprises a mayor (two-year term) and four councilors (four-year terms). City departments are Economic Development, Planning, Administration, Community Development, Fire, Parks/Recreation, Police, and Public Works. The Osseo Library is in City Hall and is a branch of the [[Hennepin County Library System]]. Osseo publishes a quarterly newsletter, ''Osseo Outlook'', and co-publishes an annual resident guide with Maple Grove; both are online.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.discoverosseo.com/what-s-new/city-newsletter/|title=Osseo city newsletter, Osseo Outlook, read Osseo newsletter online, advertising information|website=www.discoverosseo.com|access-date=May 8, 2019}}</ref> City facilities include a community center. The city is a member of the North Hennepin Area Chamber of Commerce.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discoverosseo.com/about-osseo/city-government/|title=Osseo city government, MN legislature, local government, state laws, city information, Minnesota suburb|website=www.discoverosseo.com}}</ref>

==Education==
Schools within the city limits are Osseo Middle School and Osseo Senior High School. Osseo and surrounding communities are served free public education from primary level to secondary level by the [[Osseo Area School District 279]]. The school district also provides free public education for Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Corcoran, Dayton and Hassan. The district's mission is "to inspire and prepare all students with the confidence, courage and competence to achieve their dreams; contribute to community; and engage in a lifetime of learning."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.district279.org/info-center/strategic-plan|title=Strategic Plan - ISD 279 - Osseo Area Schools|website=www.district279.org}}</ref>


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
{{US Census population
As of the [[census]][[Geographic references#2|<sup>2</sup>]] of 2000, there were 2,434 people, 1,035 households, and 606 families residing in the city. The [[population density]] was 1,220.5/km² (3,179.7/mi²). There were 1,060 housing units at an average density of 531.5/km² (1,384.7/mi²). The racial makeup of the city was 95.93% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 1.23% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.29% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 1.07% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.08% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 1.40% from two or more races. [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race were 0.82% of the population.
|1880= 206
|1890= 353
|1900= 346
|1910= 390
|1920= 433
|1930= 561
|1940= 738
|1950= 1167
|1960= 2104
|1970= 2908
|1980= 2974
|1990= 2704
|2000= 2434
|2010= 2430
|2020= 2688
|align-fn=center
|footnote=[https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html U.S. Decennial Census]
}}
'''2020 census'''

As of the [[census]] of 2020, there were 2,688 people in 1,273 households residing in the city. The racial majority of the city is [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], with 241 residents recorded as biracial. 15.4% of the residents are under 18. 27.2% are 65 or older. 29.2% are of German ancestry. 7.2% have graduate or professional degrees. The poverty rate is 3.9%.

==Annual events==
{{more citations needed|section|date=May 2022}}
{{tone|section|date=December 2021}}
Osseo has multiple social clubs and ongoing activities:

'''Osseo Orchard'''

In 2017, volunteers planted over 30 trees and fruiting shrubs at the Osseo Public Works site at the intersection of 2nd Street SE and 8th Ave SE. The orchard includes apples, pears, plums, and cherries. Berries include blueberries, currants, and [[Jostaberry|jostaberries]]. Residents are welcome to visit the orchard and take advantage of ripe produce.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 May 2022 |title=Osseo Orchard |url=https://www.discoverosseo.com/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks-and-trails/osseo-orchard/ |website=discoverosseo.com}}</ref>


'''Concerts and Movies in the Park'''
There were 1,035 households out of which 27.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.8% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 10.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.4% were non-families. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.83.


An effort led by Osseo's citizens enabled the construction of a [[bandshell]] in the northeast corner of Boerboom Veterans Park downtown. The bandshell is a popular place in the summer when musicians perform on Tuesday evenings, followed at dusk by a movie. This activity is supported by local donations and almost all events are free to the public.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 May 2022 |title=Band Shell |url=https://www.discoverosseo.com/departments/parks-and-recreation/band-shell/ |website=discoverosseo.com}}</ref>
In the city the population was spread out with 19.4% under the age of 18, 9.8% from 18 to 24, 29.0% from 25 to 44, 20.1% from 45 to 64, and 21.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females there were 89.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.1 males.


'''Osseo Marching Band Festival'''
The median income for a household in the city was $42,685, and the median income for a family was $52,083. Males had a median income of $38,150 versus $27,917 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the city was $23,507. About 2.3% of families and 2.6% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 3.4% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.


The [[Osseo Marching Band Festival]] is a street marching competition between high school bands along a route through the city. Popular in northern midwestern states including Minnesota and Wisconsin, street marching band competitions are held in May, June and July. The Osseo Marching Band Festival is held each year on Saturday of the last full weekend in June. A free award ceremony is held afterward in the High School Stadium. This activity is organized by the Osseo Band Boosters and funded by local donations, corporate sponsorship and fund-raising activities.
==Education in Maple Grove and Osseo==
Maple Grove and Osseo are served free public education from primary level to secondary level by the Osseo Area School District 279 (see article Education in Maple Grove and Osseo) which also provides free public education for the following areas: Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Plymouth, Corcoran, Dayton and Hassan. The District's superintendent is Susan K. Hintz.


'''Lions Roar'''
==History of Osseo==
The City of Osseo is located in the northeastern part of Hennepin County, Minnesota. Originally Osseo was under the government of townships of Brooklyn Park and Maple Grove. In the Spring of 1875, by an act of the state legislature, Osseo was incoporated with a president, three councilmen, a recorder, and a treasurer constituting its officers.


The Osseo Lions Roar, hosted by the Osseo Lions Club, is held on the Friday and Saturday after Labor Day. It includes a street fair with crafts, a carnival in the parking lots near Central Avenue and 3rd Street, and a parade at noon on Saturday beginning at Sipe's Park and ending at the Osseo Senior High School. The parade features local organizations such as sports teams from the high school, girl scout and boy scout troops, and the Osseo Marching Band.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.osseolions.org/|title=Home|website=www.osseolions.org}}</ref>
"This is Paradise," Pierre Bottineau exclaimed, as he and his traveling companions, Joseph Potvin, Peter Raiche, and Peter Gervais, stepped forth from the deep woods and scanned the beautiful prairie before them. They relaxed around the campfire, took an evening meal, and slept peacefully beneath the stars. Morning found them determined to make this "spot" a settlement. This all happened in July 1852. Claims were made on "Bottineau Prarie" and it wasn't long before other brave and adventurous men came to the area.


'''Osseo Lions Kiddie Costume Parade'''
Pierre Bottineau was born near Pembina in the Red River region, now a part of North Dakota. His ancestors were of the Hugenots who came to america to enjoy a freer religion and settled near Boston. Pierre's father, Joseph, went into the great wilderness of the Northest in the early part of the nineteenth century. Here he married a woman of the Chippewa race, "The ClearSky Woman" her Indian name. From his hardy and, in a civilized sense, normadic father, and from his Indian mother, Pierre inherited those characteristics that made him the most noted scout and voyageur in midAmerica.


Osseo Lions Kiddie Costume Parade is held on Saturday at the end of October at noon. The parade starts at North Clinic on Central Avenue and ends at Boerboom Park.<ref name=":2" />
In 1854 Warren Sampson, Isaac LaBissonniere, Clark Ellsworth, Senaca Brown, D.B. Thayer, and James McRay settled on "Bottineau Prairie." Mr. Sampson built and opened a store of general merchandise and a post office in the settlement then called Palestine. The years 1855-1856 saw much growth, and in 1856 the settlement was renamed Osseo, and platted by Mr. Sampson ans Mr. LaBissonnaire. It is said that Osseo is a Native American name, "Waseia" meaning 'there is light' although more commonly known as "Son of the Evening Star." The author Henry W. Longfellow mentions Osseo in one of his Native American legends contained in his poem "The Song of Hiawatha." It is also claimed that Longfellow visited Osseo while in St. Anthony.


'''Minnidazzle'''
A.B. Chafee laid out another village, "City of Atrraction'" a short time later to the southeast. This little city, with its stores, homes and post office, was later absorbed into Osseo.


Each December, usually the first Friday in December, the community celebrates the upcoming holidays with the Fire Truck Parade, hot beverages and bonfire, and a chance for children to meet Santa and get a free [[Party favor|goodie bag]]. This activity is sponsored by the Osseo Business Association.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.osseobusinessassociation.com/ |title=Casino Spiele Stargames 2016 |access-date=March 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307212622/http://osseobusinessassociation.com/ |archive-date=March 7, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It is free and open to the public.
Utilizing the natural resources of the neighboring Maple Grove area, namely trees, a wood market was established by Sampson in 1855. Cordwood was cut, cured for a season, and then sold to Minneapolis merchants. It was common to handle up to one hundred cords per day during the wood season. Teamsters hauled the cordwood over the rough trails to the big city. The monies recieved were used to purchase much-needed goods by these hardy pioneers.


== Notable people ==
Clark Ellsworth established a blacksmith shop in 1855, and Eli Haviland became his partner in business in 1857. Later, O Leferrier and P. Charest also opened blacksmith shops. In 1865 John Lechtman established a store of general merchandise dealing largely in cordwood. Emil Lefbvre opened a general merchandise and drugs store in 1873. He was also a postmaster.
{{unreferenced section|date=December 2021}}
* [[Brian Merritt Bergson]], Minnesota state legislator<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lrl.mn.gov/legdb/fulldetail?ID=10048|title=Bergson, Brian Merritt - Legislator Record - Minnesota Legislators Past & Present|website=www.lrl.mn.gov}}</ref>
* [[Andy Hedlund]], professional [[ice hockey]] [[Defenceman|defenseman]]
*[[Kevin Kling]], award-winning storyteller and author
*[[James Martinez (wrestler)|James Martinez]], champion wrestler
*[[Charles Munn (politician)|Charles Munn]], 37th [[Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives]]
*[[Caleb Truax]], professional [[middleweight]] [[Boxing|boxer]]
*[[Nash Jensen]], professional football player


== References ==
As more and more people--French, Canadians, Germans, and Native American--settled here, more businesses sprang up. Among the many other businessmen who established themselves early in the development of Osseo ar Z. Labrasch, groceries and notions; Nelson Rougier, wagon maker; William Krueger and Joseph Woodly, boots and shoes; Samuel Pavitt, harness maker, and Maggie Rougier and Frances Thayer, dressmakers.
<references />


==External links==
Osseo has always been fortunate to have a resident physician to care for the sick. The first doctor to make his home in Osseo was Dr. A Guernon, a Canadian, who came here in 1866, a young man from Minneapolis.
* [http://www.discoverosseo.com/ City website]
* [https://www.district279.org/ Osseo Area School District #279]
* [http://www.nhachamber.com/ North Hennepin Area Chamber of Commerce] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228081553/http://www.nhachamber.com/ |date=February 28, 2017 }}


{{Hennepin County, Minnesota}}
{{authority control}}


[[Category:Cities in Hennepin County, Minnesota]]
== Famous People ==
[[Category:Cities in Minnesota]]
Famous people have been known to come out of Osseo. Joe lauseng is a very well known drug dealer that has came out of this little minnesota town. He has changed the industry of drug dealing by trading sex for drugs and made it a worldwide fashion.
[[Category:Populated places established in 1875]]
[[Category:1875 establishments in Minnesota]]

Latest revision as of 00:24, 1 November 2023

Osseo
City
Osseo City Hall and Library
Osseo City Hall and Library
Location of the city of Osseo within Hennepin County, Minnesota
Location of the city of Osseo
within Hennepin County, Minnesota
Coordinates: 45°7′2″N 93°23′58″W / 45.11722°N 93.39944°W / 45.11722; -93.39944
CountryUnited States
StateMinnesota
CountyHennepin
Founded1875
Government
 • MayorDuane Poppe
Area
[1]
 • Total
0.74 sq mi (1.92 km2)
 • Land0.74 sq mi (1.92 km2)
 • Water0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Elevation
886 ft (270 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
2,688
 • Density3,622.64/sq mi (1,398.08/km2)
Time zoneUTC−6 (Central)
 • Summer (DST)UTC−5 (Central)
ZIP Codes
55311, 55369
Area code763
FIPS code27-49012[2]
GNIS feature ID0649024[3]
Websitewww.discoverosseo.com

Osseo (/ˈɒsi.oʊ/ OSS-ee-oh)[4] is a small city in Hennepin County, Minnesota, United States. As of the 2020 United States Census, it has a population of 2,688.[5]

Etymology

[edit]

It is said that "Osseo" derives from the Ojibwe name "Waaseyaa" meaning "There is light", more commonly translated as "Son of the Evening Star". Henry Wadsworth Longfellow uses the word "Osseo" in his poem The Song of Hiawatha.[6]

Geography

[edit]

Osseo is in northeastern Hennepin County, bordered by Brooklyn Park to the east and Maple Grove to the west. It has an area of 0.69 square miles (1.8 km2), all land.[7]

There are three main transportation routes in the city. Jefferson Highway runs straight north/south through the city; the business stretch is Central Avenue. U.S. Highway 169 follows the eastern boundary. Bottineau Boulevard (County Road 81) runs northwest through the city.

History

[edit]
Osseo in 1869

The area that is now Osseo was settled before organized local government. It was on what Pierre Bottineau named Bottineau Prairie in 1852; the community was called Palestine. In 1856 part of the town was platted as Osseo and another part as "City of Attraction".[8][9] Official Minnesota Territory surveys placed the settlement on the border of two townships. When Brooklyn Township and Maple Grove Township organized, Osseo (and City of Attraction, which later merged) was governed by those two governments. Osseo incorporated on March 17, 1875.[10]

The ethnic groups that moved in after Native tribes were removed were mostly French Canadians, New Englanders, Swiss and Germans.[11] The pioneers' businesses included blacksmiths, wagonmakers, general merchandise stores, boots & shoemakers, harness makers, tin shops, cordwood suppliers, teamsters, saloons, and hotels (Niggler Hotel, 1867; International Hotel, 1874; Great Northern Hotel, 1907).[12] There was also a Catholic church (1858), a physician, school, post office, and calaboose (jail). Methodists and Lutherans were served in their homes until the 20th century.

In 1882 the Great Northern Railroad "came steaming through town", and in 1893 a telephone station appeared. A town hall was built in 1901. The city water system and fire department began in 1915. The original Indian trail—extending from St. Paul to St. Cloud—was the town's main street, and was paved in 1918 (Territorial Road). Osseo Lutheran Church was built around 1915; the Methodist Church was built in 1922. The first Osseo High School was built in 1924. 1928 was the peak when "Osseo had one of the largest potato markets in the Northwest."[8]

A newspaper article written upon the death of John Hechtman, "The Father of Osseo", informs the reader of Osseo's opportunities and social organizations of his time.[13]

Opposite today's City Hall are memorials to US military veterans from Osseo. In 1937 a large granite monument was erected in memory of Civil War soldiers. On Memorial Day 1945 another Honor Roll was constructed of granite with a bronze plate engraved with names of those who served during the Spanish–American War, World War I and World War II. In 1957 the memorial area was named Father Boerboom Park, after a pastor of St. Vincent Rectory and the principal of its parochial school who had served since 1917.[12]

The Osseo Water Tower, built in 1915, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.[14]

Government

[edit]

Osseo incorporated in 1875 as a village and became a statutory city in 1972. The city council comprises a mayor (two-year term) and four councilors (four-year terms). City departments are Economic Development, Planning, Administration, Community Development, Fire, Parks/Recreation, Police, and Public Works. The Osseo Library is in City Hall and is a branch of the Hennepin County Library System. Osseo publishes a quarterly newsletter, Osseo Outlook, and co-publishes an annual resident guide with Maple Grove; both are online.[15] City facilities include a community center. The city is a member of the North Hennepin Area Chamber of Commerce.[16]

Education

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Schools within the city limits are Osseo Middle School and Osseo Senior High School. Osseo and surrounding communities are served free public education from primary level to secondary level by the Osseo Area School District 279. The school district also provides free public education for Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Corcoran, Dayton and Hassan. The district's mission is "to inspire and prepare all students with the confidence, courage and competence to achieve their dreams; contribute to community; and engage in a lifetime of learning."[17]

Demographics

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Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1880206—
189035371.4%
1900346−2.0%
191039012.7%
192043311.0%
193056129.6%
194073831.6%
19501,16758.1%
19602,10480.3%
19702,90838.2%
19802,9742.3%
19902,704−9.1%
20002,434−10.0%
20102,430−0.2%
20202,68810.6%
U.S. Decennial Census

2020 census

As of the census of 2020, there were 2,688 people in 1,273 households residing in the city. The racial majority of the city is White, with 241 residents recorded as biracial. 15.4% of the residents are under 18. 27.2% are 65 or older. 29.2% are of German ancestry. 7.2% have graduate or professional degrees. The poverty rate is 3.9%.

Annual events

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Osseo has multiple social clubs and ongoing activities:

Osseo Orchard

In 2017, volunteers planted over 30 trees and fruiting shrubs at the Osseo Public Works site at the intersection of 2nd Street SE and 8th Ave SE. The orchard includes apples, pears, plums, and cherries. Berries include blueberries, currants, and jostaberries. Residents are welcome to visit the orchard and take advantage of ripe produce.[18]

Concerts and Movies in the Park

An effort led by Osseo's citizens enabled the construction of a bandshell in the northeast corner of Boerboom Veterans Park downtown. The bandshell is a popular place in the summer when musicians perform on Tuesday evenings, followed at dusk by a movie. This activity is supported by local donations and almost all events are free to the public.[19]

Osseo Marching Band Festival

The Osseo Marching Band Festival is a street marching competition between high school bands along a route through the city. Popular in northern midwestern states including Minnesota and Wisconsin, street marching band competitions are held in May, June and July. The Osseo Marching Band Festival is held each year on Saturday of the last full weekend in June. A free award ceremony is held afterward in the High School Stadium. This activity is organized by the Osseo Band Boosters and funded by local donations, corporate sponsorship and fund-raising activities.

Lions Roar

The Osseo Lions Roar, hosted by the Osseo Lions Club, is held on the Friday and Saturday after Labor Day. It includes a street fair with crafts, a carnival in the parking lots near Central Avenue and 3rd Street, and a parade at noon on Saturday beginning at Sipe's Park and ending at the Osseo Senior High School. The parade features local organizations such as sports teams from the high school, girl scout and boy scout troops, and the Osseo Marching Band.[20]

Osseo Lions Kiddie Costume Parade

Osseo Lions Kiddie Costume Parade is held on Saturday at the end of October at noon. The parade starts at North Clinic on Central Avenue and ends at Boerboom Park.[20]

Minnidazzle

Each December, usually the first Friday in December, the community celebrates the upcoming holidays with the Fire Truck Parade, hot beverages and bonfire, and a chance for children to meet Santa and get a free goodie bag. This activity is sponsored by the Osseo Business Association.[21] It is free and open to the public.

Notable people

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References

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  1. ^ "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved July 24, 2022.
  2. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  3. ^ "US Board on Geographic Names". United States Geological Survey. October 25, 2007. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  4. ^ "Minnesota Pronunciation Guide". Associated Press. Archived from the original on July 22, 2011. Retrieved July 4, 2011.
  5. ^ "United States Census Bureau: Osseo city, Minnesota". U.S. Census Bureau.
  6. ^ "Poets' Corner - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow - The Song of Hiawatha". www.theotherpages.org. Retrieved May 8, 2019.
  7. ^ "Map Sof". Retrieved November 3, 2021.
  8. ^ a b Boerboom, Reverend Henry J. (1952). 1852-1952 History of 100 Years of Osseo and Souvenir of the Dedication of the New Rectory and Parochial School. Engravings by E. J. Krueger. Weston Engraving Company, Minneapolis. p. 9.
  9. ^ Foote, Chas. M.; Neill, Edward; Williams, J. Fletcher; Warner, Geo. E. (1881). History of Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis including the Explorers and Pioneers of Minnesota (By Rev. D. Neill) and Outlines of the History of Minnesota, (by J. Fletcher Williams). Minneapolis: North Star Publishing Company. pp. 294–297.
  10. ^ Ewing, Clerk Wm. Village of Osseo Minute Book. Osseo City Hall, Osseo, Minnesota (accessed Fall, 2008).{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location (link)
  11. ^ "Minnesota State Census, 1875". Family Search. November 15, 2014.
  12. ^ a b North Hennepin Pioneer Society; Osseo Lionelles (1975). 100 Year History of the City of Osseo; Osseo Centennial 1875 - 1975. Souvenir Edition. Minnesota Historical Society: Merit Printing, Minneapolis. pp. 6, 8.
  13. ^ Minneapolis Tribune, October 22, 1902.
  14. ^ Eric Roper (January 7, 2017). "Osseo water tower primed for position on national historic register". Minneapolis Star Tribune. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
  15. ^ "Osseo city newsletter, Osseo Outlook, read Osseo newsletter online, advertising information". www.discoverosseo.com. Retrieved May 8, 2019.
  16. ^ "Osseo city government, MN legislature, local government, state laws, city information, Minnesota suburb". www.discoverosseo.com.
  17. ^ "Strategic Plan - ISD 279 - Osseo Area Schools". www.district279.org.
  18. ^ "Osseo Orchard". discoverosseo.com. May 1, 2022.
  19. ^ "Band Shell". discoverosseo.com. May 1, 2022.
  20. ^ a b "Home". www.osseolions.org.
  21. ^ "Casino Spiele Stargames 2016". Archived from the original on March 7, 2016. Retrieved March 29, 2020.
  22. ^ "Bergson, Brian Merritt - Legislator Record - Minnesota Legislators Past & Present". www.lrl.mn.gov.
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