This historical home, standing at 9239 Lawndale Lane N., was built in 1861. Photo: Maple Grove Historical Preservation Society
Today’s home designs differ from Maple Grove’s homes built before 1920; of the 12 remaining, three stand out.
Our most familiar historic home is that of the explorer Pierre Bottineau. Compared to the log structures of many immigrants, Bottineau’s classic clapboard home is an example of prairie affluence. Built in 1854, the Greek Revival-style house was relocated to its current location in Elm Creek Park Reserve in 2009. A visit to the park isn’t complete without pausing to admire one of the finest homes of its time. (For more information, see our March/April 2024 issue at maplegrovemag.com.)
Featuring the wrap-around porches, prominent front-facing gables and decorative woodwork characteristic of the popular Queen Anne style, the next two homes have been lovingly cared for. The stately home at 9239 Lawndale Lane N. was built in 1861 and has been meticulously maintained. The 1901 home at 8858 Comstock Court N. is notable for its asymmetrical façade, multiple roof lines and the gabled dormers that allow for more usable space in the upper floors. Restored to pristine condition, both farm homes are outstanding examples of architecture popular in the post-Victorian era.
Today’s unique designs offer environmentally friendly “smart” homes, chef-level kitchens, spa-style bathrooms, personalized landscapes, perhaps an indoor sports area and much more. Yes, the housing industry has changed, but the purpose of a home hasn’t. A home is a shelter, a safe place, a place to put down roots and a place of community. Maple Grove was that for families in the past, and it remains that place for families today.
Kate Wodtke is a research and inventory specialist with the Maple Grove Historical Preservation Society and a Minnesota Author Project judge. Discover more at maplegrovehistory.org.
