What if these walls could talk? The Orville L. Freeman State Office Building has stories etched in its very foundation. This building stands as a testament to a remarkable Minnesotan.
Orville L. Freeman. The Orville L. Freeman State Office Building bears the name of a man who shaped Minnesota’s history. He was the 29th governor of Minnesota serving from 1955 to 1961. Later he became the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson from 1961 to 1969.
Freeman’s journey began in Minneapolis where he was born in 1918. He excelled academically graduating from the University of Minnesota. There he also met both his wife Jane Shields and his lifelong friend Hubert Humphrey.
World War II interrupted his early ambitions. Freeman joined the Marine Reserve. He saw combat on Bougainville. There he sustained injuries that would prevent his return to active duty.
Despite his war wounds Freeman pursued a career in law and politics. He became a key figure in the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party. Freeman’s political career ascended when he was elected governor in 1954. He championed various initiatives during his three terms. These initiatives included water resource management and fair employment practices.
In 1960 Freeman nominated John F. Kennedy for president at the Democratic National Convention. This further cemented his place on the national stage. Following his governorship Freeman served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. He left a lasting impact with his proposed Food Stamp Program.
The Orville L. Freeman State Office Building houses important state departments. These include the Department of Human Rights, Health, and Agriculture. The building stands near the State Capitol. It is located at 625 North Robert Street.
Visitors must check in at the Security Desk. The desk operates from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Deliveries are handled at the Freeman Loading Dock.
Orville L. Freeman passed away in 2003. He left behind a legacy of public service and dedication to the people of Minnesota. The Orville L. Freeman State Office Building serves as a reminder of his contributions. It connects his name to the ongoing work of the state government. It ensures his memory lives on in the heart of St. Paul.