Some History about Cottage Grove

The area was settled in the 1840s with the creation of two villages, Langdon and "Old Cottage Grove." When the early settlers arrived, the land was thick with oaks and prairie grasses. This savannah-like landscape was developed into farmland and became known for its creameries and wheat production. The area was served by rail lines, river shipping, and grist mills. The primary settlers were from New England and left their architectural influence, which is still preserved here today. New Englander James Sullivan Norris, an early farmer, and known as the “founding father” called his homestead Cottage Grove which was adopted as the town name. The village of Langdon, incorporated into Cottage Grove in 1963.

Links with more history:

Wikipedia-Cottage Grove, Mn
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cottage_Grove,_Minnesota

Washington County Historical Society
http://www.wchsmn.org/research/communities/cottage_grove/index.php