The Fascinating Story Behind Minnesota’s Most Iconic Building
When it comes to iconic buildings, every state has at least one - the kind of place that instantly comes to mind when you think of that area. Maybe it’s historic, maybe it’s massive, or maybe it just has a look that sticks with you.
Think the Empire State Building, the White House, the Space Needle - forever linked to the cities where they stand. But beyond the famous landmarks, every state has its own architectural gem with a story to tell.
Here in Minnesota, ours isn’t just iconic. Its a towering piece of history that was once the tallest in the entire Midwest!
LOOK: Explore the iconic buildings from every state
Gallery Credit: Aine Givens
The Fascinating Story Behind Minnesota’s Most Iconic Building:
Now home to the W Minneapolis - The Foshay, this towering landmark still offers some of the best views in the city from its 30th-floor observation deck. But beyond its skyline-defining presence, the building has a fascinating backstory.
The 32-story skyscraper was the brainchild of Wilbur Foshay, a Minneapolis businessman who dreamed of leaving his mark on the city. Inspired by the Washington Monument, he spared no expense in constructing his namesake tower, importing Italian marble, African mahogany, and lavish bronze accents according to MNopedia.
But Foshay’s success was short-lived. Just months after his tower opened, the stock market collapse wiped out his fortune. By 1931, he was convicted of fraud, and his empire crumbled.
Also See: Click here to see what building Architectural Digest Named Most Iconic in Minnesota.
Through it all though, the Foshay Tower stood strong. While other downtown buildings of its era were lost, this one became a Minneapolis treasure. By 1978, its place in history was secured with a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
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