Lakeshore Communities

City of Greenwood: A Brief History

David Olson, RealtorBy David Olson, Realtor · October 25, 2026 · 3 min read
City of Greenwood: A Brief History

Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida

Historical values are an important part of the community in Greenwood, Minnesota. Most of the city’s history derived the city of Excelsior when from Colonists came out of New York in 1853 in order to be the first to settle the town.

Knowing a community’s story helps you understand its neighborhoods today. Here’s a short history.

Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.

Thinking about a home in Greenwood?I’ll show you what homes nearby are really selling for and which streets fit your budget.

How Greenwood began

Excelsior is a small area, but has been a focal point of the lower portion of the Lake Minnetonka location for years. It was the first official community to be established near Lake Minnetonka. Most of the settlers in the area were from the colonies, and the city still has architecture that was influenced by the eastern part of the country.

Lake Minnetonka is a large part of Greenwood’s history. Save for the Native Americans, the lake was a secret to all. The wooded areas and shores surrounding the lake provided plenty of food for the Natives to live off of. Therefore, Lake Minnetonka was critical for their survival and kept hidden from the settlers. However, settlers eventually discovered the lake in 1822. By 1851, the treaty of Mendota between the Natives and the U.S. Government provided the settlers access to a wide stretch of land, including Lake Minnetonka. Development around the lake thrived in the 1880’s and 90’s. Steamboats created access to the lake as they offered locals cruises across the water. Big Island, a park near the lake that was built in 1902, offered entertainment that people traveled miles for in order to experience. Lake Minnetonka is the 10th largest lake and the most heavily accessed body of water in the state of Minnesota. Greenwood became an official city in 1956.

A simple plan for your Greenwood move

I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Ready to talk? Start a buyer plan or ask what your home is worth.

Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.

Your next step in Greenwood

Greenwood homes are priced neighborhood by neighborhood. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in Greenwood.

Twin Cities market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David
    GreenwoodLake MinnetonkaBig Islandtreaty of MendotaCity of GreenwoodCIty HistoryHennepin County

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