About Us

Just as a birth in the plant or animal kingdom is preceded by a period of development, so also, the birth of a town takes place only after events, circumstances and people have formulated it. Therefore, it seems prudent that the history of Lismore should begin with a brief summary of what took place prior to 1900.

In it's primeval state, this area was rolling prairies stretched as far as an eye could view it - lush with flowers and vegetation in the summer; a wonderland of white in the winter. Vast herds of bison, elk and deer roamed the open prairies, sharing it with the red man who reigned supreme.

The area of North America, we know now as Minnesota, was occupied by the Dakota or Sioux Indians from the very earliest days. In fact, the whole of southwestern Minnesota remained the country of the red man up to the middle fifties and nearly to the time when Minnesota was admitted to the union as a state in 1858.

Nobles County was created by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature May 23, 1857 - the same year as a band of Sioux Indians ruthlessly massacred settlers in Spirit Lake, Iowa. Following this, few white settlers remained in this or adjacent areas and few new settlers arrived. The 1861 census showed eleven families, comprising thirty five persons, residing in the county. Permanent white settlement didn't resume until 1867.

The most precipitated event to the birth of the town was the building of the Burlington Railroad Company spur line running from Worthington to Hardwick, Minnesota.  The road had been constructed a part of the distance during the fall and winter of 1899 and taken up again in the spring of 1900. It reached the site of the present town of Lismore at 3 o'clock on Saturday afternoon June 9th. Immediately thereafter was commenced the building - thus a town was born!

 Lismore is a small quaint town in southwest Minnesota. The city prides itself on its small town feel. Many businesses and organizations are committed to keep the city thriving. The city is known for its quality, well kept, ball field that has a history of its own. The city park is the center of focus for all ages with an outstanding park shelter for any occasion. The Lismore Fire Hall which also houses the City Hall has numerous "old time" photos of years past. We welcome you to come visit us anytime!