Historical Markers in Anoka County, Minnesota
Aaron Greenwald
Anoka Post Office
Bridging the Mississippi
Circle of Life
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park
Fireman's Grove
Highway of Exploration
History of the Rum River
Ice Age Souvenir
Itasca Village Townsite
Logbooms Meet Sawmills
Perseverance Needed
River Highways
Robert W. Akin
Rum River Dam
The Gathering Place
The Stone House
Ticknor House
Where Cultures Meet
Where Land and Water Meet
Why Settle Here? / Time to Play
Minnesota is known for having some of the kindest, most decent, hardworking people anywhere.
About Anoka County
Anoka County Timeline
Anoka County, Minnesota has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe, who used the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering. In the early 19th century, European settlers began moving into the region, attracted by the natural resources and trade opportunities.
Officially established in 1857, Anoka County was named after the Dakota word for "on both sides," reflecting its location between the Mississippi and Rum Rivers. The county's early economy revolved around logging, farming, and transportation. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s brought significant growth and development, enabling greater commerce and connecting the county to larger markets.
Anoka County played a significant role in the development of Minnesota's education system. In 1858, the first public school in Minnesota was founded in Anoka, becoming a cornerstone for educational progression in the area. As the population grew, more schools were established, and education became a central focus for the county.
In the 20th century, Anoka County experienced further growth and transformation. The construction of Highway 10 and Interstate 35 expedited transportation and trade, facilitating the expansion of industries and residential areas. The county also became a hub for defense manufacturing during World War II, with several factories and military installations being established.
Today, Anoka County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail sectors. It is known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. The county continues to evolve and adapt, while preserving its historical roots, making it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
Officially established in 1857, Anoka County was named after the Dakota word for "on both sides," reflecting its location between the Mississippi and Rum Rivers. The county's early economy revolved around logging, farming, and transportation. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s brought significant growth and development, enabling greater commerce and connecting the county to larger markets.
Anoka County played a significant role in the development of Minnesota's education system. In 1858, the first public school in Minnesota was founded in Anoka, becoming a cornerstone for educational progression in the area. As the population grew, more schools were established, and education became a central focus for the county.
In the 20th century, Anoka County experienced further growth and transformation. The construction of Highway 10 and Interstate 35 expedited transportation and trade, facilitating the expansion of industries and residential areas. The county also became a hub for defense manufacturing during World War II, with several factories and military installations being established.
Today, Anoka County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail sectors. It is known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. The county continues to evolve and adapt, while preserving its historical roots, making it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
Anoka County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Anoka County, Minnesota.
- 1847 - Anoka County is established by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature.
- 1857 - The city of Anoka is incorporated as the first city in Anoka County.
- 1877 - Anoka State Hospital, now known as the Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center, is founded.
- 1920 - The Anoka County Courthouse, designed by Roy B. France, is completed.
- 1950 - The population of Anoka County reaches over 60,000.
- 1970 - The completion of Interstate 35W improves transportation in Anoka County.
- 1996 - Anoka County Library System is established, providing public library services to residents.
- 2011 - The Anoka County Government Center is expanded to accommodate growth and increased services.
- 2019 - The population of Anoka County exceeds 356,000 residents.