Hopkins Minnesota

City of Hopkins: A Brief History

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

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

In 1852, Hopkins, Minnesota was settled by its first European pioneers. However, the true beginning of Hopkins did not start until 35 years later when the Minneapolis Threshing Machine Company was built and provided employment for almost all of the residents.

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 Hopkins?I’ll show you what homes nearby are really selling for and which streets fit your budget.

How Hopkins began

Workers moved to the area just to find employment at this company, and the West Minneapolis Land Company moved to the town in order to build homes for all of the new residents.

By 1893, the town had just enough locals in order to petition becoming a village. The Hennepin County Board granted the petition that same year and the area was incorporated as the village of West Minneapolis. This village had a geographic area of 3-square miles, and during this time they had 1,105 residents.

In 1928, the name of the village was changed to Hopkins for Harley H. Hopkins, one of the first homesteaders and the community’s first postmaster. The first mayor was Harley Hopkins’ son, Chester L. Hopkins. The village was then officially incorporated as a city in 1947. The city also was known for being a big business area, as more and more people sought employment opportunities within Hopkins.

Today, Hopkins is 3 miles west of Minneapolis and has increased to about 4-square miles in size. It is surrounded by the cities of Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, and Edina. The city’s population was 17,591 people in the 2010 census.

A simple plan for your Hopkins 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 Hopkins

Hopkins 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 Hopkins.

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
    City of HopkinsChester L. HopkinsHarley H. HopkinsMinneapolis Threshing Machine CompanyWest MinneapolisWest Minneapolis Land CompanyCIty HistoryHennepin CountyHopkins

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