Forestville

State: Minnesota County: Fillmore County Founded: 1853 Abandoned: 1890s

Forestville was supposed to be a major frontier town—the Meighen family built a store, mill, and 1857 brick building. But the railroad bypassed it, and Thomas Meighen simply bought the whole town. His family farm encompassed the entire village until it became a state park.

Quick Facts

  • One man bought the entire town when railroad bypassed it
  • Operated as private farm for decades
  • Now a living history site with costumed interpreters
  • Mystery Cave is nearby for combined visit

Location

Address: Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, Fillmore County, Minnesota

Coordinates: 43.6356, -92.2275