Tangletown, a picturesque neighborhood in southwest Minneapolis, boasts a rich history that reflects the city’s evolution from pastoral landscapes to urban residential areas.
Origins as Washburn Park
In 1886, milling magnate William D. Washburn acquired approximately 200 acres of farmland along Minnehaha Creek, aiming to develop an affluent residential enclave. Collaborating with renowned landscape architect Horace Cleveland, Washburn designed the area—initially named Washburn Park—with winding streets that harmonized with the natural topography, diverging from the conventional grid pattern prevalent in Minneapolis. This design philosophy sought to create a tranquil retreat for business professionals seeking respite from urban congestion.
Architectural Development
The neighborhood’s development attracted prominent architects, including Harry Wild Jones, who constructed his residence, “Elmwood,” at 5101 Nicollet Avenue South in 1887. Jones’ presence influenced the architectural landscape, contributing to the area’s distinctive character.
In the 1920s, developer Ella Pendergast further shaped Tangletown by constructing several Spanish Revival-style homes. As a single mother of three, Pendergast developed 16 residences in Tangletown between 1925 and 1929, leaving a lasting architectural legacy in the neighborhood.
Washburn Park Water Tower
A notable landmark, the Washburn Park Water Tower, stands at the neighborhood’s highest point. Designed by Harry Wild Jones and completed in 1932, the tower features eight hooded knights and eagles, symbolizing vigilance and strength. Although it became obsolete in 1952, the tower remains a historic symbol of Tangletown.
Educational Institutions
Tangletown is home to Washburn High School, established in 1925 to accommodate the growing population of South Minneapolis. The school’s name and its teams’ nickname, the Millers, pay homage to the city’s milling heritage.
Transition to Tangletown
Originally known as Washburn Park, the neighborhood was officially designated as Fuller before adopting the name Tangletown in 1996. This change reflects the area’s distinctive, winding streets that contrast with the traditional grid layout of Minneapolis.
Today, Tangletown is celebrated for its historic charm, architectural diversity, and lush landscapes along Minnehaha Creek, embodying a unique blend of Minneapolis’s historical and cultural development.
Is a wonderful place to visit, and by much account, a safe place to live!
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