At the Aberdeen

Designed by the architectural firm of Wilcox and Johnston, the Hotel Aberdeen was completed in 1889 for less than $250,000. Perched on the southwest corner of Virginia and Dayton, three blocks away from the grand homes of Summit Avenue, the Aberdeen was a fine, old residential hotel complete with cafe, fine dining and a grand ballroom. In 1896, one could stay on the American plan for $1.50 and have lunch for 75 cents. The hotel 78 residential suites and 14 guest rooms. Every unit was equipped with plumbing, electricity and a private bath.

It was such a prestige address that Minnesota’s Governor, John Johnson made the Aberdeen his home for six years. After World War I the veterans bureau leased the Aberdeen and used the hotel as hospital until 1927. The Aberdeen changed hands frequently and fell into disrepair during the depression years. After several fires, bankruptcies, an unsolved murder and years of vacancy the property was considered jinxed by most of the neighborhood.

The final stroke of bad luck came while the building was being razed in 1944. Aconstruction Worker named Leo Christensen was nearly crushed in a cave-in of bricks on the sixth floor. Dr. George Crossette, who was called to the scene slipped on ladder and broke his leg. Police then called Dr. Maurice Welsberg to administer morphine and attend to both men. The lot sat empty for many years after the Aberdeen came down. These days the site of the old hotel is used as a parking lot for the YWCA.