Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida
The city ofMinnetonka, Minnesota was at one time a very sacred place for the Native Americans.
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 History of Minnetonka began
There was plenty of game that was offered by the surrounding lake and prairies, as well the large lake, Lake Minnetonka. The Dakota Sioux and Ojibway Chippewa would cross through Minnetonka as they traveled between Shakopee and Mille Lacs.
Eventually however, the indians left the land due to a treaty that allowed the settlers to claim the land for themselves. The majority of the early settlers came to Minnetonka primarily from New England, and northern Europe. Between 1946 and 1955, Deephaven, Wayzata, Hopkins, and St. Louis Park annexed separately developed residential areas in the Minnetonka Township. This is the reason why the big city is surrounded by so many smaller ones. The Minnetonka Township’s geographical area had been reduced from 36 to 28 square miles, while at the same time the population was increasing from 6,466 in 1940 to about 15,600 in 1956.
By the late 1960s, Minnetonka still hosted many agricultural areas. Through railroads and booming local businesses, the area grew quickly. People continued to move to Minnetonka, and today’s population is above 51,000.
How it grew
Lake Minnetonka plays a part Minnetonka’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. There is a reason that Minnetonka considers itself to be the main lakeshore city. Lake Minnetonka is the 10th largest lake and the most heavily accessed body of water in the state of Minnesota.
Minnetonka today serves as a large city near Lake Minnetonka that holds as the center of the lake community for the surrounding smaller cities.
A simple plan for your Minnetonka 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: Minnetonka, Lake Minnetonka, Deephaven, Wayzata. 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.
History of Minnetonka on video
Your next step in Minnetonka
Minnetonka 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 Minnetonka.
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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