A commercial hub for the surrounding communities, Long Lake is home to many local shops and businesses.

The first permanent settlement was established in May 1855 with the arrival of the Flemings and the George Knettles from Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.

This first settlement was named Cumberland Town and consisted of a saw mill, general store and schoolhouse.

The Knettle's house became a favorite stop for travelers between 1855 and 1860 and is the location of the first public religious service in the community.

A significant aspect of the early settlement of Long Lake was the relationship between the Dakota, the Chippewa and the settlers.

Although there was no fighting and the actual intentions of the Dakota are not clear, their presence in the area forced the Chippewa to vacate Teepee Hill.

This area was acquired by Bradford Wakefield, most probably through adverse possession, and purchased by Union Cemetery Association in 1861.

There was concern among the settlers that the Chippewa would return, so by establishing a cemetery (hallowed ground) it was unlikely that any Native American people would choose that site as an encampment, thus assuring the safety of the surrounding area.

A sawmill was erected (1866), the railroad reached Long Lake (1868), a school district was organized (1869), a general store was started (1870), the Freethinkers Hall was organized (1874), a flour mill was established (1875), and a hotel was added (1875).

The Minnesota Fruit Growers Association was established in Long Lake in 1898 to focus on promoting strawberry and raspberry production.

These products became a regional specialty with shipments going as far as Fargo and Grand Forks, North Dakota.