The Arthur and Edith Lee House stands before you. A seemingly ordinary white house it hides a powerful story. This unassuming home in Minneapolis’ Field neighborhood is a silent testament to a courageous struggle against racial injustice. Built in 1923 it became the focal point of a shocking episode of racial violence in the early 1930s.
The Lees an African-American couple purchased the house in 1931. This was a time of deep-seated racial discrimination in housing. The predominantly white neighborhood was fiercely protective of its homogeneity. A local association had a gentlemen’s agreement to prevent non-whites from living there. The Lees’ purchase broke this agreement.
Their move into the neighborhood was met with immediate hostility. Neighbors hurled insults and threats. Stones flew. The house was defaced with paint and racial slurs. The harassment escalated into a full-blown riot. Hundreds then thousands of people gathered outside the Lees’ home. They demanded the family leave. The police offered little protection.
The situation garnered national attention. The Minneapolis Tribune ran a front-page story on the attack. Arthur Lee a World War I veteran powerfully declared his right to live there. He had fought for this country. He deserved a home.
The Lees fought back with the support of the local NAACP chapter and its president Lena O. Smith. She provided legal aid. She encouraged them to stand their ground. Their defiance became a symbol of resistance. The police presence continued for over a year. Eventually however the constant harassment forced the Lees to move in 1934.
Today the Arthur and Edith Lee House stands as a powerful reminder. It is a tribute to their courage and resilience. It highlights a dark chapter in Minneapolis’ history. The house’s listing on the National Register of Historic Places ensures the Lees’ story will be remembered. It reminds us of the ongoing fight for equal housing and racial justice. The legacy of the Lees is a powerful call for reflection on the past and a reminder of the importance of building a more inclusive future. This house more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the indomitable spirit of a family and a community. It speaks volumes about the need for ongoing vigilance and the importance of remembering this significant moment in history.