Armory

“One of the most expensive buildings in Minnesota?”. You might be surprised to hear that the Minneapolis Armory, standing right here before you, once held that title. The year was 1935, and the nation was in the grip of the Great Depression. Yet, here in Minneapolis, a beacon of hope and progress rose – the Minneapolis Armory. This imposing structure, built with funds from President Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration, was more than just a military building. The Armory, designed by local architect and National Guard Major P.C. Bettenburg, was a statement, a testament to the spirit of resilience and community. Imagine the hustle and bustle inside these walls! From the late 1930s through the 1970s, the Armory was a hub of activity. It wasn’t just military drills and training; the Armory throbbed with the energy of concerts, political conventions, and electrifying sporting events. In fact, this very floor witnessed the legendary Minneapolis Lakers grace its basketball court. From 1947 to 1959, the Armory served as their part-time home, and in the 1959-1960 season, it became their primary home court. But the Armory’s story doesn’t end there. In 1982, a young musician from Minneapolis chose this historic venue to film a groundbreaking music video. The song? “1999” by none other than Prince. Today, the Minneapolis Armory stands as a proud landmark, a symbol of the city’s rich past and its vibrant present. Having undergone renovations, it’s now a thriving events center, hosting concerts and gatherings. It’s a place where history whispers from every corner, reminding us of the enduring spirit of Minneapolis.