Consider this. Lake Minnetonka is more than just a lake. It is a tapestry woven with threads of glacial history. It is a Native American heritage and a Gilded Age opulence. The Dakota people knew Lake Minnetonka intimately long before European settlers arrived. They understood its rhythms and respected its resources.
Fast forward to the 1800s. French fur trappers ventured here. They were the first Europeans to lay eyes on this expanse of water.
In 1852, Minnesota’s territorial governor, Alexander Ramsey, officially named it Minnetonka. This name is a translation of the Dakota words for Big Water. Imagine the sigh of relief of pioneers when they finally reached its shores.
The arrival of the railroad in 1867 transformed Lake Minnetonka. It was now easily accessible. Tourists flocked to the lake to experience its pristine waters and curative climate. Grand hotels sprung up. The Hotel Lafayette was the largest. It boasted over 400 guest rooms. Picture steamboats gliding across the water. The Belle of Minnetonka was the largest. It could carry up to 2,500 passengers.
The late 1800s was Lake Minnetonka’s Glory Years. In 1882, the Minnetonka Yacht Club was founded. Sailing became popular. Hazen Burton’s racing scow, the Onawa, revolutionized inland sailing.
By the end of 1887, the Glory Years faded. Economic depression hit. Hotels closed down. Summer cottages and country homes began to appear. In 1906, streetcar boats connected Minneapolis to Excelsior. These boats were nicknamed streetcar boats. They had split cane seating and a yellow and red color scheme. Big Island Park opened. It attracted tourists from the Twin Cities.
The streetcar boats ceased operating in 1926. People started using automobiles. Excelsior Amusement Park continued to draw crowds. The Andrews Sisters spent summers here. Tonka Toys began manufacturing in Mound.
Two F4 tornadoes caused widespread damage in 1965. This event is remembered as the Tornado Outbreak of 1965.
In 1979, the wreck of the streetcar steamboat Minnehaha was located. It was raised and restored. The Minnehaha returned to passenger service in 1996.
Today, Lake Minnetonka remains a popular place to live and visit. Lakeside communities thrive. They attract boaters, tourists and local residents. They offer shops, dining and historic charm. Lake Minnetonka is the tenth largest lake in Minnesota. It spans over 14,000 acres. It has over 100 miles of shoreline. It remains the most heavily used lake in Minnesota.