Saint Paul Government Town

Would you like to get a peek at the inner workings of the city that is hosting this year’s National Preservation Conference? Well then, have I got a field session for you!

Saint Paul is extremely proud of their preservation efforts…and rightly so. It has worked hard to foster a preservation ethic beginning with the Landmark Center (pictured at left) in the 1970's and maintains its commitment through countless projects in progress today.

This field session will take you to many impressive local preservation projects and will discuss issues of public/private partnerships, planning and maintenance of government buildings and building restoration plans used in the past and currently in progress. While learning about these hot topics in preservation you will be treated to some beautiful examples of restoration and renovation. Visit the regal cortile of the Landmark Center, which is not only a featured space on this field session but will also be the venue for the Conference’s Opening Reception. Gaze at the amazing Statue of Peace at the Ramsey County Courthouse/City Hall and learn details about the lush woodwork on each level of this public building. Enjoy a hard hat tour of the Warren E Burger Federal Building and see the painstaking detail involved in restoring this mid-century working courthouse. And finally enjoy a tour of the beautiful and majestic Minnesota State Capitol with a climb to the top where you will enjoy a dizzying view of Saint Paul and a glimpse of the Minneapolis skyline in the distance.

(Minnesota State Capitol Building)

So, if you’re going on this tour I have a few pieces of advice for you:

1) Arrive early at the Landmark Center where coffee/snacks will await you. This tour has a lot to offer and if you have a full belly and prompt departure you won't regret it!

2) Wear your most comfortable shoes. There is quite a bit of walking involved in getting to each venue and then inside the buildings themselves.

3) Be prepared to learn a lot! Your guides are extremely knowledgeable and are ready to answer all your questions.

4) Have fun!

~Farin