General Info
Freeborn County was established in 1855 and named in honor of territorial representative William Freeborn. Early industry was led by agriculture as pioneers arrived to farm the fertile soil and raise cattle. Albert Lea was selected as the county seat and communities were founded near railway stops, lakes and rivers. Businesses, churches and schools were established to meet the growing needs of its residents and by 1900 its population had reached 21,838 and the area continued to prosper. Today Freeborn County is home to approximately 31,002 residents.
