Kline Sanatarium

a.k.a. Pierce Hotel

1500 S. Ferry St., Anoka, MN
The Kline Sanatarium is significant as Anoka's first hospital and as the only extant building associated with a significant theme in the city's history -- health and medicine. From its settlement in the mid-1850s throughout the first three decades of the twentieth century, Anoka was widely known as a healthful place to live. Throughout this period, Anoka was also noted for its excellent climate and water. At the turn of the century, Anoka became known, largely due to the fame of the Kline Sanatarium, as an unequaled place to seek restoration to health from numerous ailments. In addition, the Kline Sanatarium represents a significant architectural element in the city of Anoka landscape.

In 1902, after nine years of building a successful and widely acclaimed medical practice in Anoka, Dr. James Franklin Kline constructed this sanatarium. For thirty years the sanatarium provided a wide range of medical care and surgical needs. Dr. Kline and his staff of fourteen specialized in the treatment of "neurasthenia", "catarrh", and respiratory ailments. In addition, restorative baths and massages
were provided.

In addition to operating a hospital, Dr. Kline was a health officer for the city of Anoka; he served for nine years as a surgeon for the Great Northern Railroad Company and was a medical examiner for local Masonic lodges and for the New York Life Insurance Company. Dr. Kline was a member of the Royal Arcanum, Woodmen, Royal Neighbors, Workmen, and Degree of Honor.

Kline operated the sanatarium until his death in 1932. The work of the sanatarium was continued by Kline's son, Dr. Harry Kline, until 1935. In 1939 the sanatarium was converted to a hotel.
Local significance of the building:
Health/medicine; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

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Minnesota is known for having some of the kindest, most decent, hardworking people anywhere.
Anoka County, Minnesota has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe, who used the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering. In the early 19th century, European settlers began moving into the region, attracted by the natural resources and trade opportunities.

Officially established in 1857, Anoka County was named after the Dakota word for "on both sides," reflecting its location between the Mississippi and Rum Rivers. The county's early economy revolved around logging, farming, and transportation. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s brought significant growth and development, enabling greater commerce and connecting the county to larger markets.

Anoka County played a significant role in the development of Minnesota's education system. In 1858, the first public school in Minnesota was founded in Anoka, becoming a cornerstone for educational progression in the area. As the population grew, more schools were established, and education became a central focus for the county.

In the 20th century, Anoka County experienced further growth and transformation. The construction of Highway 10 and Interstate 35 expedited transportation and trade, facilitating the expansion of industries and residential areas. The county also became a hub for defense manufacturing during World War II, with several factories and military installations being established.

Today, Anoka County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail sectors. It is known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. The county continues to evolve and adapt, while preserving its historical roots, making it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Anoka County, Minnesota.

  • 1847 - Anoka County is established by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature.
  • 1857 - The city of Anoka is incorporated as the first city in Anoka County.
  • 1877 - Anoka State Hospital, now known as the Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center, is founded.
  • 1920 - The Anoka County Courthouse, designed by Roy B. France, is completed.
  • 1950 - The population of Anoka County reaches over 60,000.
  • 1970 - The completion of Interstate 35W improves transportation in Anoka County.
  • 1996 - Anoka County Library System is established, providing public library services to residents.
  • 2011 - The Anoka County Government Center is expanded to accommodate growth and increased services.
  • 2019 - The population of Anoka County exceeds 356,000 residents.
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