Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida
The City of Shakopee is so rich in history, that it is difficult to discuss in a brief manner.
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 Shakopee began
The city was once nothing more than a small trading post in the middle of nowhere, but now is one of the most populated areas in the south metro.
Shakopee has been home to Native Americans for thousands of years. The local village was named Tintonwan, which meant “village of the prairies.” In 1842, a steamboat gave a tour along the river, and two men found this location and wanted to settle in it.
In 1851, with the Treaties of Mendota and Traverse des Sioux, the area was opened for settlement. Thomas A. Holmes, who was “the father of Shakopee,” built a trading post near the Tintonwan village. In 1854, Holmes established the official Shakopay Village, naming it after the leader of the Dakota band, Chief Shakpay II. He had good relations with the indians for many years.
How it grew
Shakopee was then incorporated as a city on May 23, 1857, which was a very early time to become a city in those days. Sadly, Shakopee’s city establishment didn’t last long. In October 1861, the State Territorial Legislature passed a very rare law where the city fell under government township. However, that did not stop the major attraction that settlers had to the area.
In 1860, Shakopee had a population of 1,138, a substantial amount in that period. For many years, the main way of transportation either as a passenger or for produce was through steamboats. However, a railroad was built in the township in the mid-1860’s.
Shakopee was again incorporated in the year of 1870. Within that time, business were prospering in the city. The most notable of its industries were its red and lime brick.
Later years
The beginning of the 1900’s brought many changes to Shakopee. While automobiles began to arrive in the area, the trains remained an important transportational piece to the city. In 1911, President William Taft visited the city by way of train. In 1910, the city’s population was 2,300.
Two of Shakopee’s most integral and oldest running businesses were built in 1930. They were Bill’s Toggery, a clothing store, and Rahr Malting, a malt manufacturing facility and they employed many of the early settlers. Shakopee’s economy began to shift in the 1960s with the development of the Valley Green Industrial Park, the metropolitan area’s largest ready-to-occupy industrial park. By the year of 1970, the City’s population had increased to 7,716.
One landmark, built in 1976, was Valleyfair Amusement Park. This park draws over 1 million people annually and put the city of Shakopee on the map. Ten years later, Canterbury Park was built for horse racing. This popular attraction draws over 600,000 visitors every year.
Today
Although housing was established in large quantities during that time, Shakopee remained isolated. With the city being cut off by the Minnesota River, and not having any major access to larger highways, the city’s growth suffered. However, the integration of State Highway 13 and the addition of the bridge of U.S. Highway 169 over the Minnesota River solved all of the city’s developmental issues. In no time at all, Prior Lake experienced a residential boom. Today, the city has a population close to 40,000.
A simple plan for your Shakopee 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 Shakopee
Shakopee 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 Shakopee.
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.
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.
