Minnesotans are drawn to water and with two major rivers running through it, Anoka is a water lover's paradise. Situated at the confluence of the Rum and Mississippi rivers in the southwest pocket of Anoka County this city offers a lot for everybody. These rivers served as a major power asset to the first settlers, as they developed the first area businesses. Today, Anoka is a thriving business and residential community, yet it still maintains much of its small town charm. The historic downtown main street is filled with Victorian houses, antique shops and other specialty stores. Anoka is located 18 miles north of Minneapolis. History Settled in 1844 and incorporated in 1878, Anoka's development has followed its rivers. Some of the first developments were a sawmill and dam, built during the logging boom of the 1840s. These were soon followed by milling, wood-working plants, copper shops, a potato factory and a shoe factory. Anoka's proud history includes several rebuilding efforts following tragedies from fires and tornados. With over 160 years of history behind it, Anoka continues to flourish. More than 600 businesses are located in Anoka, ranging from small in-home offices to major international corporations. The Anoka County Government is among the largest employers in the community. Halloween Capitol Known as the "Halloween Capitol of the World", Anoka has held annual Halloween festivities for citizens since 1923. This annual event first started as an initiative to prevent Halloween pranks, offering other means of entertainment. The city has continued the festivities ever since. Events during October include a night parade with lighted floats, haunted houses, pumpkin carving contests and a huge Grand Day parade. A complete schedule of events can be found at www.anokahalloween.com Parks and Recreation With 825 acres of recreational property, Anoka is proud of its park system. There are numerous designated parks offering a variety of recreational amenities including the Anoka Aquatic Center - a 400,000-gallon pool with a water play structure and a slide. Goodrich Field Skate Park offers in-line skaters and skate-boarders a safe place to keep their sport rolling. Whatever your recreational interests are, Anoka provides a wide range of activities for people of all ages. Schools Anoka-Hennepin School District 11 serves a broad area of Anoka and northwest Hennepin counties. The district is one of the largest in the state enrolling over 40,000 students annually. Anoka-Hennepin schools are well equipped with technology to enhance educational opportunities.
-Home Owner's Resource Guide
