When Was New Prague Founded?

By Robert Palmer

New Prague is a city in Scott and Le Sueur counties in the state of Minnesota, United States. It is located roughly 45 miles southwest of Minneapolis and has a population of around 7,500 people.

But when was New Prague founded? Let’s take a closer look at the city’s history.

The Founding of New Prague

New Prague was founded by a group of Czech immigrants in the late 1850s. These immigrants, who were mainly farmers, were drawn to the area by its fertile land and the opportunity to start new lives in America.

One of the earliest settlers in the area was a man named Wenceslaus Macha. Macha arrived in what is now New Prague in 1856 and began farming on a piece of land near present-day Main Street. Other Czech families soon followed, and by the early 1860s, there was a small but thriving community in the area.

Growth and Development

Over the next few decades, New Prague continued to grow and develop. In 1875, a group of local businessmen formed the New Prague Milling Company, which operated a flour mill on what is now Main Street. The mill quickly became one of the largest employers in town and helped to spur further growth and development.

In 1885, New Prague was officially incorporated as a city. By this time, it had several churches, schools, and businesses, including several saloons and breweries that catered to the large number of Czech immigrants living in the area.

Modern-Day New Prague

Today, New Prague is a thriving community that retains much of its Czech heritage. The city celebrates its cultural roots with an annual festival called Dozinky Days, which features traditional Czech food, music, dancing, and other activities.

New Prague also boasts several parks and recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city’s location near the Minnesota River Valley provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

In Conclusion

New Prague was founded by Czech immigrants in the late 1850s and has since grown into a thriving community. Its rich history and cultural heritage make it a unique and fascinating place to visit or call home. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor recreation, New Prague has something to offer everyone.