The city of Clarks Grove is located in Freeborn County, Minnesota. According to the 2010 census, the city had a population of 706 people. The population is expected to reach 694 by 2020. In terms of the median age, Clarks Grove residents are 40.9 years old. Males are slightly older than females.
The city was established in 1857. By 1860, it was a thriving community. It had a population of 7,516 white residents, 2,214 enslaved people, and five free Blacks. In the same year, an F4 tornado struck the city, killing six people and injuring 22, causing an estimated $5 million to $50 million in damages.
In 2010, the median age of the population was 38.1. It was comprised of married couples, with 50.8% of the population being 25 years old or younger. There were also 8.5% of single women and 7.5% of elderly people. The average household size was 2.39.
The county was home to a variety of industries. The lumber industry provided jobs, but the county's economy grew with manufacturing and industrial businesses. In addition to the timber industry, the county's economy also benefited from education, with the school system being a major employer.
Before European settlement, the area was home to several Native tribes. In 1841, Alvin and Abigail Smith built a log cabin in the town of Forest Grove to establish a mission among the Native Americans. Afterward, Harvey Clark joined them in establishing the Congregational Church. In 1845, Thomas Naylor claimed 562 acres of land in the vicinity of Forest Grove. Harvey Clark later claimed property east of Naylor.