Crowell Block

You can read about the history and designation of the Crowell Block historic landmark.

About

 


1974

 


2006

Address: 2957 Lyndale Avenue South

Neighborhood: Whittier

Construction Date: 1888

Contractor: Unknown

Architect: Edgar E. Joralemon

Architectural Style: Richardsonian Romanesque

Historic Use: CommercialResidential

Current Use: Commercial/Residential

Date of Local Designation: 1985

Date of National Register Designation: N/A

Area of Significance: Architecture, Commerce

Period of Significance: 1800-1899, 1900-

Historic Profile: The Crowell Block is an excellent example of the rusticated mode of the Richardsonian Romanesque architectural style. Elements of the style are apparent in the building’s massing, the rock-faced masonry facades, and the use of broad arch forms. Frank Crowell, a local real estate developer, commissioned the firm of Joralemon and Ferrin to design the building to serve as commercial and residential space. Constructed in 1888, it was the first large-scale development accompanying the expansion of the streetcar system in southwest Minneapolis. As a key architectural element on the corner of Lyndale Avenue and West Lake Street, the building’s dominance represents a visual link to the nineteenth century as well as a significant aspect of early commercial development in an expanding city.

Photo Credits:

1974, Charles Nelson, courtesy of The Minnesota Historical Society

2006, Minneapolis CPED

Works Cited:

"National Register of Historic Places Inventory – Nomination Form," June 1981.

Updated: February 2007

Contact us

Community Planning & Economic Development

Heritage Preservation

Phone

612-673-3000

Address

Public Service Center
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415