Grand Rapids is a friendly city in northern Minnesota with almost 11,000 residents. The heart of the community—past and present—is Old Central School, built in 1895 to serve the area’s elementary students.
Designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture in 1895, it was a buzz with children until 1972. Today, it is home to a few businesses and is filled with art and history.
Listed as a National Register of Historic Places, it was not until 1984 that the school was restored and became a location for commerce and community events. It is a grand building with original wooden detail, chalkboards, and other school remnants.
Several paintings detailing Grand Rapids’ history adorn its walls. One painting depicts the early voyagers who came to Minnesota in the 1600s. Others are of a riverboat on the Mississippi, the county’s lumber industry, and iron mining.
I wandered from floor to floor, past a photography studio, salon, spa, and fabric shop. On the top floor is Artist in the Attic featuring David Dobbs.
Whether you are looking to get your hair done, check out the art, or simply appreciate history, check out the Old Central School if you find yourself in Grand Rapids. By the way, Grand Rapids is also the hometown of Judy Garland. Her home and museum are open for tour.
For more information about visiting Grand Rapids, click here.
