Sheryl Bakewell 320-760-5616

Alexandria, MN Area Guide

Alexandria, Minnesota is a thriving tourist center, as well as a city in and the county seat of Douglas County. This beautiful city is home to numerous lakes and resorts, as well as a high quality of life enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. As of the 2008, Alexandria’s population was estimated to be 12,415. With exceptional services including health care, education, the arts, cultural events, retail shopping, employment, transportation, housing and public services, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to make their home in Alexandria. Alexandria is also an attractive location for business and industry due to its well-educated work force coupled with a strong work ethic. Douglas County has four categories of industry employing the most people including trade, transportation and utilities; education and health services; manufacturing; and leisure and hospitality.

History

Alexandria’s early days begin before the U.S. Civil War with two young brothers, Alexander and William Kinkead, who came from Delaware westward following their dreams of settling land in the Minnesota Territory. Their travels brought them along the Red River Trail at the time when Minnesota moved from territory to statehood in 1858. The younger brother, William, was commissioned to help survey and establish a government road from St. Cloud to Fort Abercrombie in the west and this provided an excellent opportunity to seek out land.
In the summer of 1858, the brothers chose a large tract of land on the south shore of Lake Agnes to homestead. The brothers formed a town site company with five men from eastern Minnesota, who were attracted to the beauty and future prospects of this area. By Autumn of 1859, Alexander Kinkead established a U.S. Post Office and served as the Postmaster. The town site was named after its postmaster and was given the name “Alexandria”. By the time the Civil War started in 1861, the town was growing steadily. The absence of a railroad and telegraph communication distanced the settlers from the conflict to the South. News of other struggles closer to home had an impact that would change the future of the new settlement. In August of 1862, the stage brought word that settlers had been killed by an Indian raid in the Dakota Territories and that the Indians had also declared war on the whites in Minnesota.
In November 1862, the U.S. Army erected a stockade in Alexandria, turning it into a government post. The Fort was the center of commercial and social activity until the troops left in the spring of 1866, and it fell into disuse. Alexandria’s permanent settlers wouldn’t begin arriving until after the end of the 1860s.
In 1866, the first general store was built in Alexandria, along with many other businesses, a sawmill, a flour and gristmill, to name a few. A new courthouse was completed in 1876 and served for 20 years. At this time a second schoolhouse was needed, and it was built next to the previous one and they became known as the “Twin Schools.”
The first train, which was part of the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, arrived on November 5, 1878. It was a major event because transportation of supplies, people and important mail service could be accomplished much more efficiently by rail transportation rather than by stagecoach. In 1880, that railroad became part of Great Northern Railroad’s main line, and the Great Northern Depot was built. It was located near the site of Alexander and William Kinkead’s first log cabin just north of the old stockade. It still stands there today as the Depot Express Restaurant and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Discover this and more about Alexandria’s rich history by clicking here: http://www.alexandriamn.org/index.php/community/history/

Attractions

Central Lakes Trail
The Central Lakes Trail, Minnesota's 23rd State Trail, is built on an abandoned Burlington Northern Railroad corridor. The Central Lakes Trail (CLT) runs 55 miles from Osakis west to Fergus.

Casey’s Amusement Park
Casey’s Amusement Park features go carts, a one-fourth-mile bridged track, bumper boats, miniature golf, water wars, batting cages, and picnic areas.

Go Fore Fun ‘n Golf
Go Fore Fun ‘n Golf offers fun for the whole family. There’s something for everyone to enjoy including miniature golf, go carts, kiddy carts, a driving range, and much more.

Knute Nelson House
The Knute Nelson House was built by ex-Minnesota governor and longtime United States Senator Knute Nelson. The Knute Nelson House itself is a beautiful home is filled with many artifacts and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Discover what awaits you by visiting the Knute Nelson House’s official website. http://www.discoverourtown.com/MN/Alexandria/Attractions/66276.html

Runestone Museum
Runestone Museum is home to the controversial Kensington Runestone, which is thought by some to indicate that Vikings had visited the area in the 14th century. Outside the museum stands Big Ole, a 25-foot-tall statue of a Viking originally built for the World's Fair in New York in 1964. Find out more about the Runestone Museum by visiting: http://www.runestonemuseum.org/index.cfm

Carlos Creek Winery
The Carlos Creek Winery is located just north of Alexandria and offers a year round tasting room and live music on Saturdays. Wine sampling is available anytime they are open for $5, and this cost includes a souvenir Carlos Creek wine glass. No reservations are needed for our tours unless you are bringing a group of 20 or more. However, tours are limited to 35 people, so come early, especially on weekends. For more information on Carlos Creek Winery, please visit: http://www.carloscreekwinery.com/

Yesterday’s
Yesterday’s is an antique shop that features two floors of antiques, furniture, collectibles, and unique old vintage household items. Discover lost treasures and make new memories at Yesterday’s. For more information, please visit: http://www.discoverourtown.com/MN/Alexandria/Shopping/66306.html

Annual Events
Annual Alexandria events include a Grape Stomp hosted by the Carlos Creek Winery every September, an Apple Fest in October, the Douglas County Fair every August, Art in the Park every July, as well as many others. For a more detailed list of events please continue reading below or visit: http://www.alexandriamn.org/index.php/community/calendar_of_events/

Douglas County Historical Society presents their Hanger Dance
The Douglas County Historical Society’s Hanger Dance is dedicated to raising funds to preserve local history. Big Ban entertainment by Doc’s All-Stars and Runestone Rockettes begins at 7 pm. Food and drink for this event is catered by Depot Express and featuring Carlos Creek Winery. There is a raffle with prize packages valued up to $500 and even a Grand March for those dressed in period costume. Come out and dance the night away for a good cause. Please visit the official event website for more details: http://www.alexandriamn.org/index.php/community/event/douglas_county_historical_socitey_presents_their_hanger_dance/

Annual 4thof July Boat Parade on Big Chip Lake in Brandon
Celebrate the 4th of July in style with the annual Boat Parade on Big Chip Lake in Brandon. The event begins at Ramsdell Beach at 2:00 pm. For more information, please click here: http://www.alexandriamn.org/index.php/community/event/23rd_annual_boat_parade_on_big_chip_lake_in_brandon/

Minnesota Food & Wine Festival featuring the “Grape Stomp”
Come be a part of the 10th Annual Grape Stomp. This is one of the largest winery events of any kind, offering arts and crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, and wine. Please visit the official event website for more information. http://www.carloscreekwinery.com