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Independence, Lyndale, and Maple Plain Independence Despite its current designation as a city, Independence (population 2,822) retains some physical characteristics of a rural farming township. Incorporated first as a township in 1858, then as village in 1957, it became a city in 1972. Its population has risen by more than 40 percent in the last 20 years. Like many fringe communities, former farms have been developed into hobby farms and large-lot home sites. Probably no more than 10 large farming operations remained in 1996, according to the city clerk/treasurer. Since Independence is outside the Met Council's Municipal Service Area, most new home sites are usually five or more acres each. The layout of Independence is that of a township: 36 mile-square sections. The trail runs east to west along almost all of the southernmost tier. Lyndale The trail passes by Lyndale (population approximately 50), an unincorporated area of Independence. Lyndale once was a stop on the stage route. There is an existing parking lot here. Lake Rebecca Park Reserve and Lake Sarah Recreational Park, which are part of the Hennepin Parks System, lie partially within the extreme northwest corner of Independence. Morris T. Baker Park Reserve forms part of the city's eastern boundaIy near Lake Independence. Maple Plain The city of Independence surrounds the city of Maple Plain on three sides. While the Luce Line does not enter the city, the trail lies about a mile south of the city, via either CSAH 19 or CSAH 110/83. Maple Plain was founded in 1868. It centered around the depot for the St. Paul, Minneapolis and Manitoba Railway. The village was incorporated in 1912. The city covers about 800 acres, with a 1990 population of 2,005. It provides a commercial and service center, and has more of a traditional small-town character than many of the larger suburbs that surround it. Further residential growth is unlikely within its boundaries, as the area zoned for residential use is almost completely developed. However, some land zoned for commercial or light industrial use remains undeveloped. A potential trail connection along CSAH 19 would link Maple Plain to the Luce Line. LUCELINE.COM Along the Way | Trail Events | Organizations | This & That History | About This Site | Contact Us | Luce Line Home Page