Fridley

Have you ever heard of a place called “Friendly Fridley”? It’s right here in Minneapolis! As you stand here in the heart of Fridley, you’re surrounded by a rich history that stretches back to the mid-1800s when the Red River Oxcart Trail crossed the creek. The first settlers, like John Banfill, established a place known as Manomin. Meaning wild rice in the Ojibwe language, the area was named for the abundance of the grain that thrived in the waters of Rice Creek. It wasn’t until 1879 that the township took on the name we know today, named for Abram M. Fridley, the first territorial representative of the area.
This quiet suburban community, known for its friendly people, was incorporated as a village in 1949 and then officially became a city in 1957. During that time, Fridley experienced a growth spurt, with its population reaching over 30,000 by the 1970s.
You’ll find more than just friendly faces in Fridley. This city has a fascinating history, marked by both natural disasters and economic booms. It’s actually been hit by more than one tornado, and it has one of the first stations on the Northstar Commuter Rail line! So, while Fridley may be a quiet suburb, it’s brimming with memories, growth, and stories waiting to be discovered. We’ll talk more about Fridley’s exciting history as we continue on our tour.