Welcome to the Guide to Hutchinson. The Guide is produced by the Hutchinson Leader. It strives to be the most comprehensive annual source of community information available, offering information necessary for newcomers as well as established residents.

This year’s edition is as large as ever, with these new features:
• A story about the rebuilding of State Highway 7.

• A story about the reconstruction of the Crow River dam in downtown Hutchinson.

• Stories about the city’s two newest schools, New Century Charter School and New Discoveries Montessori School.

• A story about Chief Little Crow, a key figure in the city’s early history.

• A story about one of the city’s newest recreational facilities, a disc golf course in South Park.

Highlights
• Welcome from the Mayor
• Water Carnival
• McLeod County Fair
• Arts and Crafts Festival
• Calendar of Events
• Tour of Historic Homes

County: McLeod

State Senate District: 18

State House District: 18A

U.S. Congressional District: 7th

Distance from other communities: Minneapolis/St. Paul, 60 miles; St. Cloud, 50 miles; Willmar, 48 miles; New Ulm, 43 miles; Mankato, 65 miles; Marshall, 90 miles.

Population: In the 2000 census, Hutchinson’s population was 13,080. In early 2007, it was estimated at 14,417.

On behalf of the Hutchinson area business community, the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce, Convention and Visitor’s Bureau staff and the board of directors, welcome you to Minnesota’s Hometown, Hutchinson.

When you arrive, you will notice the variety of businesses throughout the area. They have chosen Hutchinson as the home for their business which speaks highly of what we have to offer. You will be inspired by our vibrant downtown, the park at Library Square, its fountain, band shell and statues of the Hutchinson Brothers.

Welcome to Hutchinson, one of Minnesota’s great small cities. When you think of characteristics that most people would look for in a model hometown, things that come to mind are friendly people, people who get involved in their community, a city that takes pride in its neighborhoods, a downtown that retains that small town feel, beautiful parks and recreation opportunities, good schools, quality health care, good jobs, a mix of local businesses that value knowing and servicing their customers, and a city that embraces its past while looking forward to its future.