Brainerd, Minnesota is a city located at the geographical center of the state of Minnesota. Brainerd was founded in 1870, when the Northern Pacific Railroad's survey determined that its Mississippi River crossing should be located here. Originally named "The Crossing," it was organized as a city three years later and the fledgling community was given the maiden name of Ann Eliza (Brainerd) Smith, wife of the Northern Pacific's first president, John Gregory Smith. As the city grew, it attained prominence as the railroad and wood products center in north central Minnesota. Extensive railroad shops and yards and sawmills dominated the city's industrial makeup for many years. Now Brainerd Minnesota is known more for being a vacation destination. Surrounded by lakes and wildlife, Brainerd, Minnesota has much to offer visitors including fishing, boating, resorts, golf courses, shopping, and so much more!

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