Often abbreviated Alex, the city of Alexandria, Minnesota is the county seat of Douglas County, in the central western part of the state. Settled in 1858, the community was named for Alexander Kinkead, an early settler who had come from Maryland with his brother, William Kinkead. Another settler, W.E. Hicks, was instrumental in the town’s development, as he purchased the townsite in 1868, established a mill, hotel, newspaper and store, and also contributed property for a courthouse, jail, and two churches. Alexandria was incorporated as a village in 1877, and became a city in 1909. The city is situated near Interstate Highway 94, along Minnesota Highways 27 and 29. Lake Carlos State Park is ten miles north of the city. The city is surrounded by several lakes, including Lake Agnes, Lake Henry, Lake le Homme Dieu, Geneva Lake, Victoria Lake, Latoka Lake, Lake Cowdrey, Darling Lake, Lake Carlos, Lake Alvin, Brophy Lake, Lake Stony, Lake Louise, Mud Lake, Lake Mary, Andrew Lake, Lake Burgon, and Union Lake. Nearby communities include Belle River, Brandon, Carlos, Evansville, Forada, Garfield, Holmes City, Kensington, Nelson, and Osakis. Edward Hanson, the 28th governor of American Samoa, was born in Alexandria.
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Recommended Resources
Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce
The non-profit organization is made up of business owners, professional people and others in the Alexandria, Minnesota area. The benefits of membership are put forward, with a meeting schedule, member directory, and a guide to area attractions and events, guest accommodations, and shopping venues.
http://www.alexandriamn.org/
The official county government web site offers a history, profile and demographics for the county, meeting agendas and minutes, board members, committee members, and administrative contacts. A directory of county departments and a guide to local parks and trails are included.
http://www.co.douglas.mn.us/
Published by the Echo Press and Forum Communication Company in Alexandria, Minnesota, the newspaper offers local and regional news and sports stories, outdoors and business columns, an opinion section, and other features. Subscription and advertising information are included.
http://www.echopress.com/
The Alexandria Tourism Department offers a guide to local hotels, motels and other lodging opportunities, area fishing and other things to do, a calendar of events, and community information. Also include is a live camera feed, a seasonal guide, directions, and a blog.
http://explorealex.com/
Featuring three levels of antiques, used furniture, home furnishings and decor, vintage collectibles, and other nostalgic items, the shop is located in Alexandria, Minnesota. A description of the store and its products is offered, with directions, hours of operation, and contact data.
http://www.pastandpresenthomegallery.com/
