Have you ever heard of a building that’s been standing for nearly a century? You’re looking at it. This is Roy Wilkins Auditorium, a landmark in St. Paul, Minnesota, and it has seen more than its fair share of history. It was built in 1932, originally named St. Paul Auditorium, and was designed by the famed architect Clarence W. Wigington; it served as home to a variety of events including hockey, basketball, and concerts. The legendary Minneapolis Lakers even used the auditorium, occasionally, when their usual home, the Minneapolis Auditorium, was unavailable. Over time, the auditorium became a popular venue for hockey, hosting the Minnesota Fighting Saints of the World Hockey Association (WHA). The old part of the auditorium was eventually demolished in 1982, leaving only the arena wing. The name you see today – Roy Wilkins Auditorium – was given to the building in 1985 in honor of the civil rights leader. It’s a wonderful reminder of his dedication to the fight for equality. Today, Roy Wilkins Auditorium is still alive with activity. It hosts the Minnesota Roller Derby league, one of the founding members of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA). If you’re lucky, you might even catch a roller derby bout or a concert, making this building a lively hub of entertainment. You’ll find the auditorium close to the Xcel Energy Center, home of the Minnesota Wild, in downtown St. Paul. The auditorium is part of the RiverCentre complex, blending seamlessly with the surrounding community. You can always be assured that the Roy Wilkins Auditorium is a place where history, culture, and entertainment are woven together, making it a true treasure that continues to inspire people in St. Paul and beyond.
The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural
What whispers do the walls of a city hold? The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural, here on University Avenue, speaks volumes about