Memories of Lost Gems: What's Gone from Minneapolis-St. Paul That You Miss the Most?

As an traveler to the Twin Cities, my attention often lies on the new rather than the old. But reflecting on my time there, I feel a sense of loss over many notable features that have since disappeared. These memories include the Dutch Elms, the original Guthrie Theater, the old Gophers football stadium, and the vibrant Uptown scene. Each of these once defined places adds a unique charm to the city, and their absence is felt deeply among those who recall their splendor.

The Vanishing Dutch Elms

The grand Dutch Elms that lined the streets of Minneapolis-St. Paul were a sight to behold. These trees stood tall and straight, forming beautiful shaded arches over the city's avenues. Their canopies provided refreshing shade in the warm summer months, especially on midday walks or drives along the Summitt Avenue. The loss of these iconic trees due to Dutch Elm Disease was a significant blow to the city's aesthetic and cultural identity.

One particular avenue, Summitt Avenue, had four rows of elms, creating a picturesque street that was a symbol of elegance and grace. However, the introduction of this disease from the East Coast led to the sad dismantling of these once-great trees. The city skyline and streets appear different now without their grand presence, and the loss is keenly felt among those who remember them.

Historic Attractions and Their Modern Counterparts

Other iconic landmarks in Minneapolis-St. Paul that have seen their departure include:

The Original Guthrie Theater at the Walker Art Center: This historic theater was a beloved venue for the performing arts, but newer facilities now house the Guthrie's productions. The Old Gophers Football Stadium: This stadium played a crucial role in the University of Minnesota's sports history, but new venues have taken its place. The Uptown Bar and Its Commodities: The Uptown area was renowned for its nightlife and local bars, such as the original Uptown Bar and the famous Peanut Bar in Williams Bar. A new location of Williams Bar now stands, but it has lost some of its charm and quaintness. Midway Stadium and CHS Field: Midway Stadium, the former home of the St. Paul Saints, was a unique experience for baseball fans. The Saints' games were more authentic and fun compared to the Twins' games. Despite not having visited the new CHS Field, the atmosphere at Midway Stadium is fondly remembered. The Old Walker Library: The historical library, an important cultural center in Uptown, was a hub for literature and community events, but it has been replaced by newer libraries. The Peanut Bar in Williams Bar: The basement of Williams Bar once enjoyed its own brand of popularity, but this has since changed. The new Williams Bar still retains some of its charm, but it's not the same as the original.

Seasonal Nostalgia

The change of seasons from here in South Texas is a stark contrast to the Twin Cities. While we experience hot and freezing temperatures, it's the fall leaves and winter snowfall that are particularly missed. The colorful leaves of fall and the pristine white of a fresh snowfall provide a picturesque scene, but in the Twin Cities, the winters are cherished for their unique beauty and crispness.

Visiting relatives in New Ulm during the winter months allowed me to experience the lush farmland and magnificent farm buildings with multiple silos, reminiscent of castle turrets. However, after my mother's passing, the frequency of visits decreased, leaving those memories behind.

These memories, though bittersweet, illuminate the unique charm of Minneapolis-St. Paul and the impact of change on a city and its residents.