Richfield facts

Population: Peaked at 47,231 in 1970; about 35,000 today. More than 20 percent of residents now are racial minority members, a change from the past.

Established: As a township in 1858, as a village in 1908.

Jobs: About 15,000 in 2008.

Largest employer: Best Buy, with more than 5,000 employees at its Richfield headquarters.

Unusual distinction: "World's Greatest Cow," a Holstein named Dutchess Skylark Ormsby, was famous for the record-setting fat in her buttermilk in the 1910s.

Going green: Plant sellers Bachman and Wagner got their start more than 100 years ago as Richfield vegetable farmers.

The Richfield 500? In 1915, the Twin City Speedway opened where the airport is today. Though 30,000 spectators showed up for the first race, the raceway's bumpy concrete surface created problems. Within two years, the owners had declared bankruptcy.

Centennial celebration: For more on Richfield's centennial and a list of upcoming events -- which get underway Wednesday and include a Feb. 26 birthday celebration at Richfield High School -- go to www.richfieldcentennial.org/.