History of Dayton, Minnesota, USA

1851 - DAYTON Township, settled in 1851, organized May 11, 1858, was named, like its village, platted in 1855, in honor of Lyman Dayton of St. Paul, one of the original proprietors.
He was born in Southington, Conn., August 25, 1810, and died in St. Paul, October 20, 1865. He came to Minnesota in 1849 and invested largely in real estate; was the projector and president of the Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad (later named St. Paul and Duluth). Dayton is also a city with Wright County; its post office began in 1855.
Minnesota Historical Society

1866 - St John the Baptist Catholic Church established in Dayton
Churchgoers of 1857 originally worshipped in a log cabin about a mile from the current site, yet still in the strong French community that came to be known as Dayton, Minnesota. St. John the Baptist Parish was established in 1856, and in 1866 a 50 ft x 70 ft wooden church was erected just north of the current church, which served until 1904.

On Thanksgiving Day 1904, the current brick building was dedicated, with Fr. Pettigrew as Pastor.
sjbdayton.org

History of Dayton as told by Rev David Brooks
The city of Dayton occupies the northern part of Hennepin county,
its eastern and northern boundries being washed by the Mississippi river
while on its western and northwestern is the beautiful Crow river. The
surface of the town is generally rolling, and it was originally covered by
the most beatiful growth of hardwood, and an unlimited supply of
limestone. The soil is unsurpassed for fertility, while no portion of the
State is more plenteously watered with clear streams and pellucid lakes.

The earliest settler was Paul Godine, a native of sunny France, who
established a trading post with the indians in 1851. Here he remained,
plying his traffice alone, save for his aboriginal surroundings, until
1853, in the spring of which year John Veine made a claim where the
city of Dayton now stands ( the old village). Mr. Veine, the following
year (1854) ,disposed of his claim to E.H. Robinson, who also
established a trading post.

Marcellus Bonlee,... Read MORE...

Whether you're a local looking for something new to do or a visitor exploring the area, here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Dayton:
Elm Creek Park Reserve: This massive park is a nature lover's paradise. It offers hiking trails, cross-country skiing in winter, and a swimming pond for summer fun. Don't forget to visit the Eastman Nature Center to learn more about the local wildlife.

Mississippi Gateway Regional Park: Explore the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River at this park. It's a great place for picnics, bird watching, and fishing.

Rockin' Rogers Days: If you happen to visit in late June, check out this annual event in nearby Rogers. It features a parade, carnival rides, live music, and more - perfect for some family-friendly fun.

Biking Trails: Dayton offers numerous biking trails, including the Mississippi West Regional Trail and the Rush Creek Regional Trail. Rent a bike and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Fishing at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve: If you're an angler, you'll love the fishing opportunities at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. It's known for its serene fishing spots and abundant... Read MORE...