Historic Coliseum Venue

In the heart of the Longfellow community in Minneapolis, at the bustling intersection of East Lake Street and 27th Avenue South, stands a building with a rich and varied history—the Coliseum Building. Constructed in 1917, this three-story structure, designed by architect L. J. Johnson in the Classical Revival style, has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century.

In its early days, the Coliseum Building housed Freeman’s department store, a popular destination for the Scandinavian immigrants. The store provided essential goods and became a social hub where families gathered to shop and connect. The building also featured a 3^rd-floor dance hall, where the community would come together. In the 1970s, the department store closed, but the dance hall continued to be a popular venue for events and gatherings.

By the early 2000s, the building underwent redevelopment and became a multi-use space, hosting a variety of businesses, including a health clinic, restaurants (Denny’s), and other local enterprises. The Coliseum Building continued to be a vibrant center of activity in the Longfellow community.

However, the building’s history took a dramatic turn in 2020. During the unrest following the murder of George Floyd, the Coliseum Building was severely damaged by arson. The tenants were forced to vacate, and the building stood as a stark reminder of the turmoil that had swept through the city.

Despite the damage, the community’s spirit remained unbroken. In late 2021, a $26 million redevelopment project was announced to restore and preserve the historic building. BIPOC business owners, Alicia Belton (Urban Design Perspectives), Janice Downing (Common Sense Consulting), and business co-founder, Shanelle Montana (Du Nord Social Spirits) partnered and co-developed the Historic Coliseum Building with nonprofit Community Development Corporation Redesign, Inc.

In March 2022, the Coliseum Building was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. After civil unrest closed this historic building, it seemed fitting that it’s 2024 reopening coincided with Juneteenth as an example of new freedom and second chances. Today, the building stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Longfellow community, ready to embark on a new chapter in its storied history.

One of those new adventures, for the Coliseum building, is hosting Banyan Community’s Corporate Gathering fundraiser. Our Corporate Gathering fundraiser celebrates the valuable partnership organizations can have in the non-profit sector. Sheletta Brundidge, remarkable Twin-Cities personality and creator of SHElettaMakesMeLaugh, will be helping to share the stories of Banyan. Jazmine Panora, Banyan Community alumni and Engineer at Microsoft, will share her inspiring story. Enjoy some delicious breakfast treats along with a specialty coffee. This will be a morning of encouragement and offer the opportunity to transform the lives of youth and families in the Phillips neighborhood.