French Township is a township in Saint Louis County, Minnesota, United States. The population was 567 at the 2010 census.
Saint Louis County Highway 5 (CR 5) serves as a main route for the township.
The unincorporated community of Side Lake and McCarthy Beach State Park are located within French Township.
History
French Township was named in honor of William A. French, a pioneer settler.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of ; is land and , or 11.04%, is water.
The Shannon River and the Sturgeon River both flow through French Township. Sand Creek flows through the northern portion of the township.
Part of French Township is located within the Superior National Forest in Saint Louis County.
Adjacent townships and communities
The following are adjacent to French Township :
- Balkan Township (southeast)
- Dark River Unorganized Territory of Saint Louis County (east)
- Sturgeon Township (northeast)
- The unincorporated community of Sturgeon (northeast)
- Morcom Township (north)
- The unincorporated community of Bear River (north-northwest)
- Bearville Township of Itasca County (west and northwest)
- Northeast Itasca Unorganized Territory of Itasca County (southwest)
- McCormack Unorganized Territory of Saint Louis County (south)
Unincorporated communities
- Side Lake
Demographics
At the 2000 census there were 354 people, 146 households, and 117 families living in the township. The population density was 10.7 people per square mile (4.1/km). There were 286 housing units at an average density of 8.6/sq mi (3.3/km). The racial makeup of the township was 99.72% White, and 0.28% from two or more races.