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Little Canada, Minnesota





HISTORY

In 1844, French-Canadian settler Benjamin Gervais moved north from St. Paul, MN to claim land in order to build the first Grist Mill in Minnesota that was independent from the government. Today, the large lake on the east side of Little Canada bears his name (Lake Gervais), and the former Grist Mill turned City Park is recognized as the birthplace of the city. Little Canada began as the township of New Canada in 1858. In the 1950s the township was threatened by the suburban sprawl of the ensuing larger communities that were formed, such as Maplewood, MN . In 1953, the city leaders came together and established the village of Little Canada. It became a city in 1974. It was named Little Canada because the settler was Canadian.


Canadian Ties

The city is not shy about its Canadian heritage. For instance, its official symbol is an initial LC on a white Fleurs-de-lis with a red Maple Leaf background, and the Flag Of Canada is displayed in council chambers.
  Last Scrivener
  First Lesile
  Title O Little Canada, a home away from home
  Newspaper Toronto Star
  Pages A1
  Year 2007
  Date 2007-07-01