Continuing with our spotlight on Minnesota Counties this week features Anoka, Becker, and Beltrami. As always, if you know of any celebrations, county fairs, or special tidbits your county is known for, e-mail us at info@mn150years.org and we’ll include your information when we feature your county!
Anoka County
http://www.co.anoka.mn.us/
Founded: 23 May 1857
History
• The area of Anoka County was first founded by fur traders in 1850
• The word Anoka originates from a Native American word meaning “both sides”
Population: 320,803 (2005 Census)
Major towns: Anoka, Coon Rapids, Blaine, Fridley
Acres: 446 square miles
Location: Anoka County is located in the eastern section of the state, northeast from the Metro area.
Fun facts
• The city of Anoka is considered the Halloween Capital of the world. Be sure to stop by in October for haunted houses and candy!
• This year (2007) Anoka County is celebrating its Sesquicentennial. Happy 150th Birthday!
Public Recreation Sites
• Bunker Hills Regional Park
• Lake George Regional Park
• Locke County Park
• Mississippi West Regional Park
Other Places to Visit
• Wargo Nature Center
• Bunker Beach Water Park
• Anoka County Historical Society
Upcoming Events
• Anoka County Fair, July 24th-29th
• Ghosts of Anoka Tour – summer months only
• Anoka County Heritage Home & Garden Tour, July 15th
**Thanks to the Anoka County Website for the information!
Information gathered by Claire Plank, Sesquicentennial Fellow
Minnesota Sesquicentennial 