In 1883 the area known as North Oaks was purchased by Saint Paul railroad tycoon, James J. Hill, who expanded it into a 5,000-acre breeding and hobby farm. When ownership passed to James J. Hill’s children they decided to develop the land into a model residential community. They incorporated the North Oaks Company with a unique mission to build with respect for the natural environment. To ensure their mission would be fulfilled, land was subdivided and sold while creating the North Oaks Home Owners’ Association (NOHOA) to be responsible for roads and recreation. With the Association in mind, it was decided that each home’s property line would stretch half way into the street, placing all roads into private ownership.
Although North Oaks was formerly a gated community, it now posts private access signage as all land is owned by homeowners with the NOHOA. The NOHOA maintains all roads, plowing, parks, facilities, and recreation trails. There is also a city government with a Mayor and City Council that administers basic services such as fire, police, planning, and licensing, however, the City owns no property.
The original 1880’s farm buildings have been restored to their original grandeur. The remaining structures, the Blacksmith and Machine Shop and Dairy Building, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places while the remaining land in the city is owned by the North Oaks Company.
