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The Pine River Dam completed in 1886 was the boom that started the Crosslake area and it's sole industry, logging. The chain of lakes was created in order to move the heavy beams from place to place, before that the lakes were not interconnected.

The logging camp at Cross Lake had eating and sleeping accommodations for 1,400 men. The camp included large stables, office buildings, a blacksmith shop, a small roundhouse, and warehouses.

Crosslake was formally organized in 1903. The last load of logs was hauled in to camp in 1906. The camp and railroad were dismantled by 1912.

From Indian battleground, to logging camps, to resorts, the Whitefish Chain has seen many changes. The lakes once supported by necessity; now supply visitors with the joy of quietly sitting amongst pines and water, waiting for a bite.

For more information on the history of Crosslake, visit the Historic Log Village or contact the Crosslake Area Historical Society at PO Box 134 Crosslake, MN 56442 or(218) 692-5400.