Minneapolis Armoury

The Minneapolis Armory, from military to entertainment venue

The Minneapolis Armory, an emblem of Minnesota's rich sporting heritage, is a testament to architectural grandeur and sporting history. Its journey from a National Guard armoury to a pivotal boxing venue encapsulates a narrative of transformation, endurance, and rebirth.

Breaking ground in 1935 and opening its doors in 1936, the Minneapolis Armory was constructed as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration (WPA) program. With its cost reaching $600,000, this PWA Moderne-style building, designed by St. Paul architect P.C. Bettenburg, became one of the Twin Cities architectural marvels during the Great Depression. The building, characterized by its bold geometry and strong contours, featured integrated sculpture ornamentation that depicted patriotic images, such as eagles, stars, and shields, exuding an aura of power and strength.

Originally serving as a training and recreational facility for over 27 units of the Minnesota National Guard, the Armory’s role extended beyond military purposes. It was also a hub for various civic events, including concerts, political conventions, and sporting events. The Armory gained recognition as the home of the Minneapolis Lakers basketball team from 1947 to 1960 before they became the renowned Los Angeles Lakers.

In the 1980s, the Armory faced the threat of demolition when Hennepin County purchased it to build a new jail. However, it was saved thanks to its listing on the National Register of Historic Places and the efforts of preservationists. For a time, it functioned as a parking garage but largely remained vacant. This period of uncertainty ended when the Armory was purchased by a developer in 2015, who transformed it into an event center, breathing new life into this historic structure. In 2018, it reopened as a concert and event venue, just in time for the Super Bowl, marking a full-circle moment in its storied existence.

Throughout its history, the Minneapolis Armory has witnessed and adapted to the changing tides of time. From a military training facility to a sports and event venue, it has remained a symbol of resilience and reinvention. The Armory's journey mirrors the dynamic nature of sports themselves – ever-evolving yet rooted in history and tradition.