Windego Park Auditorium

WINDEGO PARK AUDITORIUM

Understanding historical significance for future planning

"This is a challenging project with many different opinions on what should happen with the site. New History provided clarity and a clear, transparent process to help the City understand the auditorium's history so that the community can make informed decisions about the future of the structure."

- Lisa LaCasse, Public Services Administrator

LOCATION

CLIENT

CONSTRUCTED

PROJECT DATE

PROJECT SCOPE

Anoka, MN

City of Anoka

1914

2020-2021

Historical research, re-evaluation of National Register of Historic Places eligibility

A re-evaluation of National Register eligibility provided information to guide future decision-making.

CHALLENGE

Designed by notable Prairie School architects William Purcell and George Elmslie in 1914, the Windego Park Auditorium was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1980. By 2020, it was unclear if the structure remained eligible for listing on the NRHP, leaving an unknown factor that hindered the City’s ability to plan for the future of the site.

SUCCESS

Through historical research, on-site assessment, and review of applicable federal statutes, New History determined that the property remains eligible for continued listing on the NRHP. Because NRHP listing has the potential to impact funding and approvals for any option chosen for the site, this information will help the City to make informed decisions about the future of the auditorium.

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