The Youngest Old Building in Minneapolis
The Young Quinlan Building was designed by Magney and Tusler with Frederick Ackerman. Miss Quinlan spared no expense when building her elegant five-story building at the corner of Nicollet Mall and Ninth Street. She sought out an architect that would design her “home” with an Old World atmosphere. The building’s dedication ceremony and open [...]
Parking Lots, Skyways and Nicollet Mall
After half of downtown was razed in the early 1960′s, efforts were made to help Minneapolis compete with the growing suburbs for retail dollars. It was hoped that acres of surface parking created by urban renewal would appeal to shoppers, but just in case that didn’t bring them in, the city took a chance [...]
Renaissance Square Then and Now
Ten stories high, the Andrus Building, was designed by Long and Long in the Chicago School style. Completed in 1898, Renaissance Square is one of the oldest buildings on Nicollet Mall. The original cornice was removed and the ninth floor arched windows were squared off by 1931. A two story storefront was replaced by a [...]
The Conservatory Then and Never Again
On the back of my sleeve I have a fading memory of a five or six floor hedge maze on Nicollet Mall. I’ve pre-spotted and rubbed a little vinegar and lemon juice into the fabric, but the stain just won’t come out. Seems like I got lost for hours in there and never bought [...]
Putting on the Sheraton-Ritz
Rising 187 fee above Nicollet Mall, The Sheraton-Ritz went up in 1963. The hotel contained 300 modern air-conditioned rooms on 19 floors and was the first high-rise building constructed in the Gateway District Urban Renewal Project area. . Swimming pool and family plan. There was free parking for registered guests. The Famous Cheshire Cheese, La [...]
