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Historic Photos
Construction of the City Hall and Courthouse building was a feat to say the least. Huge blocks of granite -- some weighing as much as 26 tons each -- were transported by horse and wagon from Ortonville, Minnesota. The downtown Minneapolis landscape also has changed significantly since the building's inception in the late 1800s. As time has passed and events have occurred, the building has endured as a lasting icon for Minneapolis and Hennepin County. Peruse the historic photo archive for a look into the founding and life of the City Hall and Courthouse as well as some close-ups of key building features.


Image Gallery: Historic Photo Archive
Hennepin Avenue Suspension Bridge The predecessor to the present Hennepin Avenue bridge, the early suspension bridge connecting what is now downtown to St. Anthony. Old City Hall The first Minneapolis City Hall was erected in the heart of the Gateway District where Hennepin and Nicollet Avenues converge. Built in the Empire style, it was designed by Long before his partnership with Kees. The flagpole that stood at its main entrance (not pictured) may still be seen today in nearly the same location from over a century ago. Interior View of Clock Face A view of a clock from inside the clock tower during the installation of a new clock face. City Hall and Courthouse A familiar view of the City Hall and Courthouse from the northwest. As seen in the photograph, the magnificent structure dwarfed surrounding buildings, such as the row houses to the west and across the block. It remained the tallest building in Minneapolis until the construction of the Foshay Tower in the 1920s. 
See all 24 images.


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Last modified on 11/14/2007 4:20:35 PM