Welcome City of Rochester visitors

History of Rochester

The city of Rochester credits its naming to a settler from Waukesha, Wisconsin, Gearge Head. He staked a claim on the bank of the Zumbro River near the falls in July of 1854, and he called the town Rochester because it reminded him of his hometown of Rochester, New York. Shortly thereafter, the small town started to blossom around the institutions it built or attracted, most notably, the Mayo Clinic.

The Flood of 1978

In July 1978, the Zumbro River swelled to a record crest of 23.36 feet. Below are some links to photos taken during and after the flood, as well as information on the flood control project to prevent future floods.

For further information, you can contact Gary Neuman, Assistant City Administrator, or Terry Spaeth, Administrative Assistant at 507-285-8082