Two local Northside men received 2016 Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Awards on May 12. The awards are given annually by a partnership of the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, AIA Minneapolis, and Preserve Minneapolis to honor exemplary projects, individuals, and community organizations that celebrate and enhance the heritage and historic character of Minneapolis.
Will Lumpkins, who is a lifelong resident of North Minneapolis, received his award in the category of Grassroots: Advocacy and Education for his creation of the “Old North Minneapolis” Facebook Page. On the page, members post photos and memories of growing up in North Minneapolis. Will has a real passion for preserving the history of North Minneapolis. Besides creating the Facebook page, he has also worked to have the area around 44th and Lyndale Aves. recognized as a historic district for its connection to the lumber milling history of Camden, and to not let the historic Mereen Johnson buildings be demolished. In addition to these activities, he has also advocated keeping some historic buildings on West Broadway, including one of the first White Castle buildings, from being demolished.
Brian Finstad also received his award in the Grassroots: Advocacy and Education category. He was given the award for his “energetic dedication and continued efforts as an advocate for the preservation and rehabilitation of homes throughout North Minneapolis.” Brian is also a frequent contributor to both the Camden Community Historical Society and the Old North Minneapolis Facebook pages.
Congratulations to these civic minded Northsiders, not only for winning the awards, but also for their work in preserving the history of our community!