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| First Settlers Highland was almost entirely under water before it was first settled in 1848. Only a high sand ridge stood above the water. People referred to this area as Highlands. |
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Pioneers Michael and Judith Johnston were Highland’s first settlers in 1847. The area began as mostly open farm land until the arrival of the railroad in 1880. Dutch farmers came in the 1890s and contributed to the growth of the town, once the largest in the state. When the town was incorporated in 1910 there were 304 people. The most recent census showed a population of 23,546 in 2000. Photos and facts courtesy of the Highland Historical Society. |
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