Before South Uptown even existed it was known as CARAG. Calhoun Area Residents Action Group. This was long before the name change in 2018. That’s right South Uptown Minneapolis wasn’t always South Uptown. The name change reflected a larger shift. A shift away from the old name of Lake Calhoun to Bde Maka Ska. South Uptown is a vibrant residential neighborhood. It sits nestled in the heart of Minneapolis. It’s part of the larger Calhoun Isles community. South Uptown boasts a rich history. It’s intertwined with the evolution of Uptown itself.
Think back to the 1920s. The Lakes Area became popular. Vacation cottages and hotels popped up. Streetcars made the area easily accessible. People flocked to Bde Maka Ska Lake Harriet and Lake of the Isles. As Minneapolis expanded South Uptown grew alongside it. Modest housing met grand mansions around the lakes. This created a unique blend of architectural styles. A blend that continues to characterize South Uptown today.
South Uptown’s location was key to its growth. It is strategically located south of Lowry Hill East and east of East Bde Maka Ska. Lake Street forms its northern border. Lyndale Avenue its eastern boundary. Thirty-sixth Street marks its southern edge. Hennepin Avenue completes the western border. This area is more than just streets and houses. It’s a community. The residents of South Uptown have always been involved in shaping their neighborhood.
Think of the 1970s. Neighborhood associations formed. They worked to tackle local issues and set formal boundaries. The challenges were many. White flight after World War II impacted the area. The closing of West High School in 1982 further changed the neighborhood’s dynamics. Gentrification is a constant factor. Yet South Uptown retains its distinctive character. It is a mix of old and new. A mix of cultures and architectural styles. It is a community that has faced challenges. It has emerged stronger and more resilient.
The area is incredibly diverse. The demographics have shifted over the years. South Uptown has a mix of ethnicities. It has various cultural influences. This diversity is reflected in its cuisine its stores and its residents. Today South Uptown remains a lively neighborhood. It’s a great place to live work and play. It has come a long way. It remains an integral part of the rich tapestry of Minneapolis. The name change marked a new chapter. A chapter that continues to be written by its residents. A chapter of renewal and community spirit. That is the story of South Uptown. A story of resilience and transformation.