Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida
The city of Little Canada, Minnesota is home to just over 10,000 residents. A close-knit community, Little Canada shares much of its history with the surrounding suburbs.
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.
How Little Canada began
The story begins in 1844 when a French Canadian settler by the name of Benjamin Gervais moved from St. Paul to present-day Little Canada. He staked claim to some land so that he could build a flour mill that was independent of the government. It was the first mill to be privately-owned in Minnesota. With Benjamin Gervais’s settlement came an influx of other white settlers, the majority of whom were French/Canadians. In 1850, the first school was established and classes were taught in French. The historical Catholic Church of St. John the Evangelist was built in 1852, and St. John’s Cemetery was also established. By 1858, Little Canada was a recognized township.
In the 1950’s Little Canada’s township felt threatened by the sprawl of the larger suburban communities around them. Rather than being adopted into one of these communities, the leaders of the city came together and in 1953 the town of Little Canada became the village of Little Canada. In 1974, it became a city. Today, the history of Little Canada can still be seen throughout the city. The city’s largest lake, Lake Gervais, takes its name from the first settler. The flour mill that Benjamin Gervais built was converted into a park. Many of the city’s residents today are descendants of the initial settlers.
A simple plan for your Little Canada 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.
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 Little Canada
Little Canada 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 Little Canada.
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.
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