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Rochester, Minnesota

Rochester, Minnesota, is a city built on compassion and innovation, renowned globally as the home of the world-famous Mayo Clinic. This isn't just a place; it's a testament to medical excellence, drawing people from every corner of the globe for healing and hope. We're proud of our deep roots in pioneering healthcare and our vibrant community that continues to push boundaries, all while maintaining a welcoming Midwestern charm.
Founded 1858 | Population 110,742 | Peak 110,742 (2024) | County Olmsted County

Top Events in Rochester, Minnesota

1
1858 City Incorporated: Rochester officially incorporated, establishing its municipal government.
2
1883 Tornado Spurs Hospital: Devastating tornado prompts Dr. Mayo and Sisters of St. Francis to build Saint Marys Hospital.
3
1914 Plummer Building Begun: Construction starts on the iconic Mayo Clinic Plummer Building, a symbol of growth.
4
1956 IBM Establishes Presence: IBM opens a major facility, diversifying the city's economy beyond healthcare.
5
2013 DMC Legislation Passed: Destination Medical Center initiative approved, securing future medical innovation and development.
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Latest News in Rochester

Mar 24, 2026
Minnesota Election Judge Pleads Guilty to Allowing 11 Unregistered Voters to Cast Ballots in 2024 General Election
PARK RAPIDS, Minn.—A 65-year-old man who served as head election judge in a small northern Minnesota precinct has pleaded guilty…
Mar 16, 2026
Investigator Exposes $170M Fraud in California
Investigator Nick Shirley has brought to light a massive $170 million fraud scheme operating within California, representing a sig…
Mar 8, 2026
NYPD Confirms Viable IED at Mayor Mamdani Protests
New York City faces a grave security threat after the NYPD confirmed that a device thrown near protests at Mayor Mamdani’s r…
Mar 6, 2026
Washington Passes Bill for Noncitizens in Law Enforcement
Washington state has enacted a new law that opens the door for noncitizens to join the ranks of law enforcement and prosecution, m…
Mar 5, 2026
Outrage as State Worker Keys Teslas and Gets Slap on Wrist
Minnesota state employee Dylan Bryan Adams was recently arrested for a series of deliberate acts of vandalism targeting Tesla vehi…
Feb 25, 2026
FBI Raids Los Angeles Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho’s Home, Office
LOS ANGELES – Federal agents raided the home and office of Los Angeles schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho on Wednesday, Feb…

Historical Timeline of Rochester

1854 Government
Town Platted
1858 Government
City Incorporated
1883 Health
Tornado Spurs Hospital Founding
1914 Architecture
Plummer Building Construction
1928 Culture
Mayo Civic Auditorium Opens
1956 Economy
IBM Rochester Established
1985 Health
Mayo Clinic's Centenary & Growth
2013 Economy
DMC Initiative Approved

Did You Know? — Rochester

1
Rochester is home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, which began after a devastating tornado in 1883 spurred Dr. W.W. Mayo to collaborate with the Sisters of St. Francis to build Saint Marys Hospital.
2
The city's downtown features an extensive network of pedestrian subways and skyways, connecting many buildings and allowing comfortable year-round travel, especially during cold winters.
3
Rochester was once a critical stagecoach stop on the route from St. Paul to Dubuque, Iowa, playing a vital role in early Minnesota's transportation and communication.
4
The city boasts over 100 miles of paved trails for biking and walking, including segments of the scenic Zumbro Riverway, showcasing its commitment to outdoor recreation.
5
The famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed a residence in Rochester, the A.H. Bulbulian Residence, completed in 1947, adding unique architectural heritage to the city.
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Famous People from Rochester, Minnesota

LT
Lea Thompson
Television Producer, Ballet Dancer · Born May 31, 1961 · Age 64
BM
Bethanie Mattek-Sands
Tennis Player · Born Mar 23, 1985 · Age 40
SW
Sheree J. Wilson
Actor, Model · Born Dec 12, 1958 · Age 67
ML
Mackenzie Little
Javelin Thrower · Born Dec 22, 1996 · Age 29
EB
Eric Butorac
Tennis Player · Born May 22, 1981 · Age 44

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