Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida
Saint Paul is the second biggest city in the state of Minnesota, the county head for Ramsey County, and home of the state capitol.
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 St. Paul began
The source and evolution of the city’s growth was a result of Fort Snelling, the first main United States military presence in the state, and because of its position along the Upper Mississippi River, it became a popular spot to settle.
Fort Snelling, initially known as Fort Saint Anthony, was first founded in 1819, at the convergence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, and was established in order to promote American governance over the fur-trading industry on the rivers. As the whiskey trade started to prosper, the military officers in Fort Snelling made an effort to forbid it. An 1837 treaty with the natives secured the area for white settlement. In 1841, the settlement was named Saint-Paul by Father Lucien Galtier, who was a priest from France, in honor of Paul the Apostle. By the early 1840’s the settlement had become a significant trading center, a resting stop for settlers heading west, and was recognized regionally as Pig’s Eye or Pig’s Eye Landing. The Minnesota Territory was ratified in 1849 with Saint Paul named as its capital. In 1854, Saint Paul incorporated as a city and in 1858, Minnesota was acknowledged to the union as one of the states.
Unique topography played a role in the settlement and expansion of Saint Paul as a trade and transportation center. The Mississippi River valley is outlined by a series of stone bluffs that line each side of the river. Saint Paul concentrated around Lambert’s Landing, the last place to unload boats coming upriver at a clear entrance point, and later became Mill City. This made Saint Paul a gateway to the Upper Midwest for westbound settlers heading for the Minnesota frontier or the Dakota’s. In 1858 more than 1,000 steamboats unloaded products and passengers at Saint Paul. Soon, infrastructure was established, and the main option was that of railroads. For well over a century, Saint Paul was a frontier town and a railroad town.
Currently, it is more influenced by business and its function as the state capitol. The people have defined the flavor of the city. Today, it consists of 17 unique neighborhoods and is often described as “the most livable city”.
A simple plan for your St. Paul 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. Learn more: Saint Paul, Parks, Schools, History. 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 St. Paul
St. Paul 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 St. Paul.
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.
