Welcome to Quamba, Minnesota
Minnesota’s Hidden Gem with a Unique Name and a Big Heart
Tucked away in the peaceful countryside of Kanabec County, Quamba is a charming small city with a rich history, natural beauty, and a welcoming community spirit. With just over 100 residents, Quamba is the smallest—and only—city in Minnesota that begins with the letter Q, making it a truly one-of-a-kind destination.
Originally founded as a railroad stop in the late 1800s, Quamba was once called “Mud Creek” before adopting its current name, derived from a Native American word meaning “mudhole.” Today, this quiet town is a perfect stop for travelers looking to experience the warmth of small-town Minnesota and the scenic simplicity of rural life.
Located along Highway 23, Quamba offers easy access to nearby outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and paddling on the Snake River, as well as camping and wildlife watching in the surrounding forests and lakes. Just minutes from Mora and not far from Pine City, Quamba is a great base for exploring the region.
Whether you’re passing through on a scenic drive, visiting family and friends, or simply looking to get off the beaten path, Quamba welcomes you with friendly faces, a peaceful pace, and a deep appreciation for community roots.
Come discover Quamba — small in size, big in heart, and full of authentic Minnesota charm.
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Welcome to Quamba, Minnesota
Tiny Town. Big Heart.
Nestled in the heart of Kanabec County, Quamba is a charming small city with just over 100 residents—making it the only city in Minnesota that starts with the letter Q. Located at the junction of Minnesota State Highway 23 and Kanabec County Roads 5 and 70, Quamba provides a peaceful escape with easy access to nearby lakes, forests, and the vibrant Mora area datausa.io+12en.wikipedia.org+12en.wikipedia.org+12.
Origins & History
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Founded in 1882 along the Great Northern Railway, Quamba was originally called “Mud Creek” after the local creek—later renamed with the Ottawa-derived term “Quamba,” meaning “mudhole” en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1.
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It was platted in 1901 and officially incorporated on July 11, 1952, welcoming Emil Oslin as its first mayor en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2oslinlumber.com+2.
Setting & Size
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Compact yet welcoming, Quamba covers just 0.704 sq mi (1.82 km²) of all land, sitting at about 1,017 ft elevation worldpopulationreview.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2.
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The small population—107 in 2020, rising slightly to 108 by 2022—makes for a close-knit community atmosphere .
Community & Lifestyle
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Residents enjoy a peaceful rural lifestyle, with local employment often tied to farming or commuting to nearby towns like Mora kanabeccounty.org+1yelp.com+1.
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Away from the hustle of larger cities, Quamba offers tranquil walks, scenic drives, and friendly waves from neighbors—capturing the essence of small‑town life tiktok.com+1mapquest.com+1.
Local Hub for Exploring
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Quamba is perfectly positioned for outdoor adventures. A short drive brings you to the Snake River, lakes, forests, and regional attractions in Mora and Pine City sweetbriarridgemn.com+1kanabeccounty.org+1.
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Nearby, the Kanabec History Center in Mora offers engaging exhibits on local history—from Ojibwe culture to 19th-century pioneer life worldpopulationreview.com+10kanabechistory.weebly.com+10kanabeccounty.org+10.
Why Visit or Settle in Quamba?
| Feature | What Makes Quamba Special |
|---|---|
| Unique Identity | Minnesota’s sole “Q‑town,” with quirky local pride |
| Small‑town living | Under 150 residents, tight community feel |
| History & heritage | Rich railway roots and fascinating name origin |
| Rural serenity | No bustle—just quiet streets and open skies |
| Gateway to nature | Trails, waterways, and exploration nearby |
Plan Your Visit
Take a drive through scenic Quamba along MN‑23 and Kanabec County roads. Explore historic Mud Creek origins, greet friendly locals, and discover the tranquility that makes this community a hidden gem. Let Quamba’s unique character, rural beauty, and genuine hospitality leave a lasting impression.
For event listings, local business info, or community updates, connect with the Mora Area Chamber of Commerce, Kanabec History Center, or nearby Quamba township offices.
Quamba: Minnesota’s little letter‑Q city with a big welcoming spirit.