MIRACLE MILE

HISTORY OF MIRACLE MILE

The land upon which Miracle Mile was built may have been first owned by Mrs. Margaret (Frank) Scott, as indicated on an 1874 map. Mrs. Scott was a sister of Joseph Hamilton, and was left a widow in about 1865 with six sons. It was she who, in 1878, donated the land for Park's first church, Clarke Chapel, on a site that is now that of Most Holy Trinity.

Martin Pratt owned the land on the other side of Wooddale, however, and the map does not make the property line clear. A subsequent map shows that the 30 acres in the southeast corner of the intersection of Wooddale and Excelsior Blvd. was owned by Ellen Poole. This is confirmed by an 1881 directory showing that R. Poole, gardener, owned 20 acres in the area, and by an 1889 map that shows Ellen Poole again owning that corner.

A map dating to 1914 shows that the land (8.65 acres) belonged to Mathilda A. Shepard, presumably the wife of Nathanial Shepard, the asparagus farmer across the street.  And indeed, the 1926-27 shows that Nate Shepard owned the land in question. The 1933 map shows nothing but a stucco house on Wooddale and a Minneapolis Gas Light Co. booster station on the property.

In the 1930's, the land was remembered as a pasture for tethered Jersey cows, and there was a big sign where Snyder's Drug Store would be that said "For Sale cheap because of non-payment of taxes." In 1940, Si Rutherford bought at least part of it for $25 per lot for his garden implement business. When he heard about the plans for the shopping center, he was heard to say, "I'll never have to work again!” He built another store further east, and despite his windfall, he continued to run his business in the new location.
 

In 1950, the firm of Sheldon-Thomas, Inc. bought the land from W.M. Livingston (Minneapolis) and S.F. Carmean (St. Louis Park) and requested a permit to build a 14-store shopping center, estimated to cost around $1 million. The plan was presented to the Village Council by a Phillip Neville. Despite a petition against the plan signed by 425 residents presented to the Village Council by attorney Hyman Edelman, the permit was granted on July 20. The subject of the objection was a 50-ft. driveway into Wooddale Avenue that was originally supposed to be part of a 100-ft. buffer strip between commercial and residential zoning. The President of Sheldon-Thomas was identified as Charles M. Redman (d. November 1, 1959).

Original plans for the red brick building (since covered over) called for a medical center catering to pediatricians, a 500-car parking lot lit by 20 light towers, and a heated bus station that would allow buses to pull well away from Excelsior Blvd. so as not to block traffic. The 154,000 square foot shopping center was touted as the first shopping center of its kind in the Upper Midwest. The project was built in two phases, with the western end built first. Red Owl stood at the easternmost end, and Snyder Drug held the corner of Excelsior and Wooddale.

The first store to open on the Mile was Warner Hardware, which opened on May 5, 1951. President Leon C. Warner and store manager Wally Dahl greeted acting Mayor Torval Jorvig, Chamber of Commerce President Henry Albrecht, and 11,000 shoppers with "1,000 fresh, dainty, beautiful princess Aloha orchids...flown direct here all the way from Hawaii…," reports the Dispatch. Over a mile of wire border fence was sold, making good St. Louis Park neighbors, presumably. Stores opened almost one by one, and the Grand Opening of the shopping center as a whole was not held until early November 1951.

The second phase was located at the eastern end. In November 1952, Shopping Centers, Inc. and Wood-Excel Co. obtained the building permit. The two-story addition, known as the Excel Building, was built to house five small shops and seven larger stores, with a total floor area of more than 18,000 sq. ft. Original plans called for medical offices and overnight hospital facilities for children on the second floor. The architect was M.O. Nathan and Assoc., a Chicago firm, and the contractor of the concrete block building was Kraus-Anderson, Inc. That section was to take in the Rutherford Building, which had just been built.

The first tenants of the eastern section of Miracle Mile began to open for business in May 1953. They were: Abdullah’s Luncheonette, Juvenile Shoe Store, Anderson Artists Supply and Gift Shop, Mills Sisters Beauty Shop, a pet shop, Del Fabrics, and the New Yorker delicatessen. Not all of these businesses actually occupied the premises, however. The grand opening of the Excel Building was November 15, 1953, and the owners were now listed as Shopping Centers, Inc.

The owners of Miracle Mile also owned similar properties in Rochester, Brainerd, and Milwaukee, all called Miracle Mile. They were foreclosed upon in the mid-1950's, and in 1956, IDS (the holder of the mortgage) sold all four properties to Intercity Investments, owned by Leo Corrigan, Sr. Corrigan's family had immigrated to America from Ireland in 1849, settling in St. Louis. Leo, one of perhaps a dozen children, traveled to Dallas to seek his fortune. Despite his fourth grade education, he got a job at a newspaper taking want ads. The ads for rental properties caught his eye, and he decided to go into the real estate business. Corrigan Properties, the privately-held family corporation based in Dallas, was incorporated in 1949, and that entity owned of all of the family's properties. Under Leo Corrigan, Sr.'s leadership it became an international concern, building hotels in Nassau, Hong Kong, etc.

At some point, an additional @ 24 ft. was added to at least part of  the building.

In 1966, there was apparently some reshuffling, and three stores: Becky’s Chalet Buffet, Fox’s, and Haugland’s, advertised their new, expanded locations.

In 1974, tenants complained that the shopping center was not being kept up. One merchant said “In 25 years they haven’t painted this place, never fixed the parking lot and they’ve got puddles in front of the liquor store [a foot] deep.” At the time, the complex was managed by Draper and Kramer.

When Leo Corrigan, Sr. passed away in 1975, the family business was reorganized and properties were distributed between the families of his son Leo, Jr. and his daughter Louise Corrigan Jordan. Corrigan Properties was renamed Intercity Investments Properties, Inc., and Louise Jordan's son Burt became President in 1983. Although based in Dallas, Mr. Jordan takes a personal interest in the management and health of Miracle Mile, which has been free and clear of debt since the 1990’s.

Miracle Mile’s trademark is “Park at the Door of Your Favorite Store.” Miracle Mile’s website is www.miraclemilemall.com

The number of businesses has changed over the years, as storefronts have been combined and divided. Just before the eastern section was built, several tenants in the original building had their addresses changed. There are about 31 offices on the upper floors. Some of the early tenants are listed below. Only verified dates are noted; these businesses may have been located at Miracle Mile as early as 1951 and/or after the date noted.

Readers are encouraged to contact us with any additions or corrections.

TENANTS OF MIRACLE MILE

Abdallah's Luncheonette and Ice Cream: 5011. 1953-61. Opened October 1953 in the Excel Bldg. by Albert Abdallah, a candymaker who had come to the U.S. from Tripoli, Syria at the age of 18. He opened a series of soda fountains and ice cream parlors in Minneapolis, then candy kitchens. The St. Louis Park store specialized in fine candy and ice cream, served lunches, and had plans to remain open until midnight every night. In September 1959, the business was sold to Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Sivigny (see Mar-Gene below). At the time of his death in 1968, Abdallah’s home was at 2730 W. Lake Street.

Abram Tailor Shop: 5405. Moved down Excelsior in 2006 to make room for Hoigaard's.

ACES Flight Simulators: 5003. February 1996 to October 2004.
 

All Paws Animal Hospital: 5225. February 2001. Owned by Dr. Lisa Lindesmith and Dr. Holly Hamilton. www.myvetonline.com/website/allpaws

Fred G. Anderson Wallpaper and Paint: 5007, 5217. 1953-1980. The Miracle Mile store, which was managed by Mel Aker and initially had three employees, opened in September 1953 (5007). The company expanded from its first site to a larger store at Miracle Mile (5217), and then in 1980 the company built a 72,000 square foot building at 5825 Excelsior.

Angela's Women's Wear (Angela’s Intimate Apparel and Corsets): 5115. 1951-61. Run by Angela Hokanson and Angeline Danielson, the store started out with intimate apparel, but branched out. The store had a Victorian décor with an antique chandelier. The store caught fire on October 21, 1961, and they held a Smoke Sale in November.

Athlete’s Foot: 5015. 1972- Grand Opening July 27-29, 1972, featuring two members of the Northstars.

Back to School: 5313. This was an accredited vocational school run by Linda Ackerman and Kim Emmans. The business ran from October 1994 to March 1998.

Beauty Parlors: 5009. Fashion Beauty Shop: 1954-60. Paul Hein Beauty Lounge: 1964-70. Paul Hein operated his salon in Lilac Way from1951 to 1964. Finger Tip Salon: 1971-75 – came from downtown in March 1971 Maxim’s

Becky's Cafeteria: 5201. 1965-1971. Opened May 15, 1965. Becky’s was a successful restaurant at 1934 Hennepin, owned by SLP resident Emma Beck. Emma sold the business, and someone else ran this “Becky’s Cafeteria.” It was originally advertised as"recommended by Duncan Hines." Later iterations were: Becky's Chalet Buffet: 1965-67 Swiss Chalet Buffet: 1967-71 One manager was Clayton Sonmore. In 1970 there was a controversy about its pay toilets, which were fairly common back then. The manager then was Hope Gronseth.

Benson Optical: 5005. June 1987 to August 1995.

Betz Tots to Teens: 5111. 1951-60. This store, which opened in mid-September 1951, was run by Maurine and Maurice Betz. Mrs. Betz was with the Isle Hat Co. for ten years; during the war she was in "investigation and personnel work with the Dupont plant at Rosemont, and following that was private secretary to the director of purchases of Brown and Bigelow." Mr. Betz had worked as a buyer for the Donaldson Co. and a buyer and merchandiser for Sears-Roebuck before serving in the army during the war. The children's store featured Golden Book wallpaper. The store went out of business in May 1960.

Body Dimensions: 5407 ? 1982. Owned by Eleanor Winn, this shop offered Swedish, oriental, reflexology, and reiki massage, in addition to tanning and exercise. In 1983, Winn successfully lobbied the City Council to make an exception to its ban on massage parlors.

Braun's Women's Apparel: 5313 from 1956 to 1968. The store moved to the 5225/5301 spot in 1968, and left in 1978 after a falling out with Miracle Mile management.

Brown Photo: 1970-72

Bullseye Golf: 1978-89. This store was first at 5313 and later in 5225.

Café Babette: 5401. November 2000 to November 2002.

Café Sorella: 5401. 1993-1995 [November 1995 to November 1997]. Run by identical twins Pat Stoner and Pam Wright, the word Sorella means sisters in Italian. The women grew up close by on Wooddale Ave. and went to Most Holy Trinity School, graduating from Park High in 1973.

Chicago Hat Bar: 5405. 1951-52. Opening in November 1951, manager Betty Garvoille apparently didn't make a go of it; the space quickly became Ostlund Jewelers.

China Jade: 5011. In 1984, brothers Kyan Nung Hwee and Kyan Sen Hwee (Peter and Steve) bought the Mee Sum Restaurant and changed the name to China Jade. China Jade closed on August 31, 2005.

Coffee Café: 5401. December 2002 -

Colonial Inn Bakery: 5005. 1953-60. Opened December 2, 1953. This was an offshoot of the Colonial Inn Restaurant.

Command Performance: 5305. 1979-1981. This was the 285th Command Performance Shop in the country, but the first in the Minneapolis area. It opened in November 1979. The company was started by Richard Wall, who attended the Grand Opening in St. Louis Park. Wall had also founded Bonanza Steak Houses.

Contours Express: 5005. Opened January 2005.

Cook's Family Apparel: 5017. 1953-56. Grand opening November 27-30, 1953. The store was located in the second phase, just east of Red Owl. It featured six department on two floors. At the grand opening, gifts included flowers for the ladies and ball point pens for the men and children. The 13,000 sf store was the fourth Cook’s to open in the Twin Cities, by Theodore L. Cook of St. Paul. The store was bought by Fantle’s in 1956, and for awhile the store was known as Fantle Bros. Cook’s.

Craft Village/Creative Expressions: 5201. 1980-2003. This store changed from Craft Village to Creative Expressions (with Creative Crafts and Creative Leisure in there) in 1988. The store started in the basement and eventually took over the upstairs.

Crumley’s Coffee Cake: 5401. December 1997 to October 2000.

Dell Fabrics: 5101. 1953 to 2006. The store was started by Herschel Goodman and his wife, store namesake Delphina. The original fixtures were cast iron.  The store was then owned by son Myron Goodman, and managed by daughter Janna Rubin. The store went out of business in 2006 after a 53-year run.

Design Line: 5305. Hair salon owned by Joe and Meg Traeger. Opened April 1997.

Dolbec's Meats: 5003. 1954-72. This store was located at the eastern end of the second phase, owned by Earl Dolbec. In 1956 he built a 15 ft. by 18 ft. addition.

Dollar Market Plus: 5313. March to December, 2000.

Don Leary "Drive In" Appliances: 5105/5101? 1954-58. In 1956, Variety rated Leary one of the top 20 record dealers in the country.

Don's Records and Hi-Fi: 5105/5101? 1958-61. E.F. Sandberg bought Don Leary’s store for his son Don to operate. The purchase reflected a desire to settle down after 40 years of travel for the tea and coffee business on the part of the elder Sandberg. The Grand Opening, held on April 24-26, 1958, featured 12,000 records and offered orchids to the ladies and candy for the kids. (Men apparently never got anything at these Grand Openings.) Appearances were made by Disk Jockeys Roy Carr (WTCN), Jim Boysen (WLOL), and Stanley Mack (WDGY). Beverly Reinicke, who had worked for Don Leary for the last 3 years, was announced as an employee of the new store. She named Johnny Mathis and Patti Page as the most popular vocalists – she was not asked about the most popular rock ‘n’ roll act.

Elegant X, “Fashions for Elegant Women”: 5115. September 1980 to September 1989. This store catered to large sizes. Another store was located in Wayzata.

Excel/100 Salon: 5305. January 1982 to September 1988. Owned by Joe and Meg Traeger.

Fanny Farmer Candy: 5401. 1951-81. This store, which opened in November 1951, was one of 20 Fanny Farmer stores in the area. Beatrice Worchester was the manager. The Fanny Farmer chain was started by Frank O'Connor in 1919, four years after the death of its namesake, cooking legend Fannie Merrit Farmer. Miss Farmer was known as the "mother of measurements" for introducing cups, teaspoons, etc. into cooking, and opened her own school of cooking, despite childhood paralysis. O'Connor had started his career at Laura Secord Candy Shops in Canada, and opened several shops in upstate New York before expanding to the Midwest in the 1920's. Fannie May Candies (named after nobody in particular) bought out Fanny Farmer in 1994. www.fanniemaycandies.com

Fantle Brothers Clothing: 5017. 1956-58. Fantle’s bought Cook’s in 1956, and for awhile it was known as Fantle Bros. Cook’s. The store was run by brothers William E. Fantle, Jr. and John Fantle. On June 19, 1958, Fantle announced they were “Quitting Business Forever.”

Fashion Gal: 5225. 1981-1985. This store was owned by Greg Schloff, who had been a buyer for Powers.

Filament Lighting: 5007. February 2002 (1999?). Owned by Todd Pearsall.

First Federal Savings and Loan Association: 5313. This was a temporary address until Federal building controls were lifted and its new building was erected in 1956. Several Minneapolis savings and loan associations and banks objected to First Federal, Park’s first source of mortgage financing, establishing itself in the suburbs. First Federal opened on Friday, July 13, 1951. President of First Federal, which had at that time been in business for 25 years, was Walter Youngquist, and the local manager was Arthur W. Olafson.

Fox's Mens and Boys Wear: 5011-5013. 1953-76. This store, owned by Reuben Fox, opened on September 17, 1953. Earl C. McNellis was the local manager. He apparently had another store, because when he retired in 1978 it was reported that he had been in business for 28 years. In 1966 they advertised that they had a new and expanded store.

(Moen) Friendship Shop: 5105 and 5111. 1967 to 2005. Jane Crawford, owner. Started in 5105, expanded to 5111 in 1972 at the exit of Haugland’s for the Young. Grand Opening of their newly remodeled store was October 28-30, 1971. Another remodel was celebrated on November 11-12, 1977.

Gabberts: 5101/5015 1951-53. Opening in November 1951, this store was one of the many appliance stores opening on the Boulevard amid the huge demand for television sets and other new appliances. It was the third in a chain owned by Don Gabbert, who lived nearby on Vallacher Avenue. The store manager in 1951 was Don Combs.

Golf Club Factory: 5225. This store was first known as Bullseye Golf from 1984 to July 1990. From August 1990 to July 1991 it was the Marty Irving Golf Center. From August 1991 to July 1993 it was called the Golf Club Factory. At one point it was owned by Gerald Brennon.

W. T. Grant Co.: 5201. 1951-65. This was the second store to open, in early June 1951. Newest of 480 Grant's stores nationwide, it was described as a variety store, dry goods center, home and hardware store, and fashion shop all in one. This store had a basement, with a total of 18,200 square feet. Store manager was Ira W. Snyder. The first W.T. Grant store opened in 1906 in Lynn, Massachusetts.

Haines Specialty Store: 5101. This store, owned by Fred Haines, opened in September 1952. Given the address, it must have been very short lived, between Gabbert’s and Dell Fabrics. The manager was Fred H. Kellogg. The store offered “hundreds of new and unusual items for the home, for the family, and for gift giving.”

Hair Force: 5305. May 1989 to April 1995

Half Price Books: 5013. November 1986 to April 1998. Moved to 5015/5017 in May 1998. This is a chain with headquarters in Dallas. www.halfpricebooks.com

John W. Heller Women's Apparel: 5305. 1952-55

Haugland's for the Young: 5111. 1960-71. Grand Opening August 13-14, 1960 – took over when Betz went out of business. In November 1966 it moved to a new location in Miracle Mile, advertising the opening of the “Twin Cities’ Must Unusual Children’s Shop!” The Girls’ Gazebo was in the basement. In 1970 there were six other stores in the Twin Cities area.

Hennepin Lake Printers and Stationers: 5007 in 1964, 5313 from September 1968 to May 1993. The company has been in business since 1945. In 1956, owners Floy E. Nelson, Vern G. Nygren, and James D. Gross were paid $9,000 to relocate, making way for the extension of Cambridge Ave. Also located at 4522 Excelsior Blvd. from 1949 to 1964.

Herald’s West Inspirational Dining was the brainchild of Harold Vogel. He started out in 1977 in the old Friar’s Club building downtown, but it was too big. In 1979 he began operating out of Becky’s Chalet Buffet, which closed at 8, on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. It was a Christian club, and one paid a $3 entertainment fee to hear the likes of the Gerber Twins. Patrons could choose from the David and Goliath (jumbo shrimp and sirloin), Samson’s Choice or Delilah’s Delight (both sirloin steaks), The Disciple (torsk), or just have the regular Swiss Buffet.

Home State Art Gallery: 5401. October 1988 to April 1989.

It’s About Games: 5301. May 1998 to October 1999.

Juvenile Shoe Store: 5009 (now 5007-1/2). 1953-62. This store, run by Richard Charles, opened on August 14, 1953. Juvenile Shoes was founded in 1931 by Frank Charles, who had another store downtown (807 La Salle)

Keefe's Men's (and Students) Wear: 5301. 1951-67. This store (with W.T. Grant) was the second to open after Warner Hardware in June 1951. It was originally called John Keefe, Inc. Mr. Keefe, a graduate of the U of M, was described as having 20 years in the clothing business, the most recent at the New York office of the Dayton Company. He had also been associated with the Varsity Shop and Maurice L. Rothschild. The store was 20 ft. wide and 100 ft. deep, the last 40 ft. being storeroom space. The interior was decorated by Weidt Associates in white and pastels.

Keller Brothers Photo Supplies and Sporting Goods: 5225. 1952-62. This store added a hobby shop in 1956. Had been at 5601 W. Lake in 1950.

Kindy Optical: 5305. April 1976- Dr. Richard Kindy had been at 3655 Joppa since the ‘50’s.

Kinney Shoes: 5321. 1951-61. KinneyShoes opened on August 23, 1951. It moved to Knollwood in 1960 and was replaced by Schuler Shoes.

Leather Specialists: 5217. 1981-85. [or just 1982]. The proprietor also had a shop downtown that catered to bikers.

Life Scan Stand Up MRI (Sotera Imaging Center): 5023. 2003 -

Liquor Barrel: 5111. August 1, 2005 -

Mail Boxes Etc: 5115. July 1990-2003. Karl and Karen Bickler owned this and another franchise in Minnetonka. Services included copying, mailboxes, faxing, shipping, and other business needs. Changed to UPS Store. Owner: Karl Bickler

Mar-Gene’s Restaurant: 5011. 1959-61. In September 1959, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Sivigny purchased Abdallah’s and began to sell less candy and more dining. They did still serve Abdallah’s ice cream and candy. In 1962 the owner was Mrs. Ruth K. Fein, who disappeared. Turned out she was wanted in Florida for swindling an elderly couple out of $9,000 – something to do with the McGarvey-Atwoood Coffee Company and a liquor store on Lake Street. Sidney Hollman managed the place as trustee. Walter Crammond, former president of the Minneapolis Central Labor Union, also had an interest. Hollman was cited by police for operating without a licence and having unsanitary equipment. He closed, and the original owner, Eugene Sivigny, applied for a license.

Mee Sum Restaurant: 5009. 1980-85. In the Excel Building. Started by Joe and Helen Chan. See China Jade.

Michael Lynne’s Tennis Shop: 5011. September 1990-November 2000. Moved to 5013 in December 2000.

Miracle Mile Cafe: 5005. 1962-64

Miracle Mile Deli: 5005. 1958

Miracle Mile Florists: 1954

Miracle Mile Liquors: 5005. 1958-76. In November 1951, there were nine applications for liquor licenses at the new Miracle Mile, but none was approved until 1958, when the off-sale license from Bunny’s was transferred to Miracle Mile. Members of Aldersgate Church objected to the transfer, but a Grand Opening was held by the Miracle Mile Liquor Store on August 1-2, 1958. The store was run by Harold L. Aretz, the eldest son of Henry Aretz of Bunnys. Harold sold his Bunny’s stock and resigned from the board.

Mrs. Scandia’s Bakery: 5009. 1984.

Nelson’s Office Supply: 5313. June 1993 to May 1994.

Niemeyer's TV and Records: 5105. 1965-73.

Nutrition World/Nature Food Centre/General Nutrition Center: 5003. 1971-2004. Opened in July 1971.

Omni Video: 5005. 1981-83. Grand Opening (of just their one hour photo?) 1981

On Your Toes School of Dance: 5025. October 1994-2003. Owned by Jeff and Cynthia Nehrbass.

Once Upon a Child: 5021. August 1993- The store, which sells new and used children’s items, opened on August 3, 1993 and had a grand opening (featuring Barney) on November 13. It was owned by Judy Wells, and was only the second such store in the Twin Cities.

Optics, Inc.: 5305. 1961. 3,000 frames on display.

Ostlund Jewelers: 5405. 1952-1999. Ostlund Jewelry celebrated their grand opening in May 1952. The store was owned by Warren Ostlund, and Carl B. Borgen was the first manager. Ostlund’s son Bill bought the business from his father in 1988.

Parkview Cameras and Gifts/Flowers: 5225. 1964-68.

Pets Unlimited: 5301. 1993-95/October 1985 to September 1997. Pet supplies, food, and accessories.

Picture Warehouse: Opened February 1995, to November 1995.

Pink Pony: 5317. 1951-72. Owner Mabry Noxon was one of the first to apply for a spot at the new Miracle Mile, but at first was told that they didn’t want a gift shop. She prevailed, and her store and its signature pink carousel pony in the window opened in August 1951. It was an institution until 1981, when the store moved to Edina. There was another store in the Colonial Square Shopping Center in Wayzata.

Plato’s Closet: 5301. Clothes for teens. June 2000 to May 31, 2005.

Plymouth Optical: 5305. 1964-75.

Progressive Beauty: Wholesale distributor of hair products, only open to licensed cosmetologists and barbers. 5015/5017 from November 1991 to June 1998. 5313 from June to August 1998. Downsized and switched with Half Price Books (5015) from September 1998 to November 2000.

Quick MedX: 5405. February 2000 to July 31, 2001.

Red Owl Stores, Inc.: 5021. 1951-73. Considered the anchor of the Mile, Red Owl opened on August 28, 1951, at what was then the easternmost end of the first phase of Miracle Mile. It featured a Kiddy Corral with TV and comic books. Red Owl was started in Rochester in 1922 – the Miracle Mile store was the fifth in the metro area. The new store, boasting 12,000 sq. ft. of floor space, was managed by Clark Messman. In 1951 the Village Council approved a request to build their own garbage incinerator behind the store. The store was remodeled in 1958 – Norman Stover, manager. Tragedy struck when Red Owl burned down on October 26, 1973. See Fires and Firefighting.

Riedemann's Bakery: 5009. 1964-72. Earl R. Riedemann ran Lilac Way Bakery across the street before coming to Miracle Mile.

S&L: 1958-67. (below MM sign). This department store opened on August 4, 1958, Morris Chauss, manager.

Sample Hut: 1975-76.

Sandwich Express: 5009. April 1989 to July 31, 2003.

Schuler Shoes: 5321. 1960 to 2005. The grand opening was held from March 31 to April 4, 1960, and featured a visit from Bozo the Clown. Vincent Schuler came from Austria in 1889 and bought an existing shoe store on Washington and Broadway in North Minneapolis, changing the name to Schuler Shoes. His son, Emmet Edward Schuler, opened up other locations, including the Miracle Mile Store in 1960. The firm is now owned by Emmet's son John. In 1970, the store was managed by Chuck Jungroth. Expanded to 5317 in February 1997. Expanded to 5313 in February 2001. In June 2005 the store moved to 5201.

Seldon Scarborough: 5015. 1975-91. Opened December 1975. Closed at the death of owner Helen Scarborough Bailey.

Bill Schorn’s Flowers and Gifts: 5007. 1958-62. The 1962 listing called it a flower and pet shop.

Shape, Inc.: 5217. This was an “exercise clinic” run by Carolyn Peterson.

Snyder (Rexall) Drug: 5425. 1951-2003. This store, the oldest in the chain, opened in November 1951. Ray Smith was the original store manager, and the President of the Minnesota-owned stores was L.D. Berkus. Snyder Drug was started in 1928 when Max P. Snyder ran a cigar and sundry store in Minneapolis. By 1931 the cigars were overtaken by pharmaceuticals. Snyder's Drug Stores, Inc. was incorporated on June 30, 1939. The Miracle Mile store was one of 12 stores operated by the 1950's. The chain was bought by Red Owl in 1962 and has changed hands several times since. This is not to be confused with Snyder Brothers Drug, which was located at 8024 Minnetonka Blvd. and owned by Shirley M. and Arthur E. Snyder. Apparently Max, Arthur, and perhaps even another brother had a parting of the ways and operated separate stores. Snyder Drug moved from Miracle Mile to Excelsior and Grand in October 2003, but the company filed for bankruptcy and was forced to close several stores, including this one.

Stevenson's: 5017. 1964-75.

Art Stone Theatrical/Dance and Bodywear: 5317. August 1976 to May 1996. Carol Moore

Subway: 5009. April 2005 –

Sun Mist Tanning Co.: 5405. 2002 to October 2005.

Sun Seekers: 5007-1/2. 1984-85

Tan Me: 1982.

True Value Hardware: 5025.

The Ultimate Canvas: 5405. September 1, 2001 to 2002.

UPS Store: 5115. 2003- See Mail Boxes Etc. Different name, same owner, services.

Village Cleaners and Shirt Laundry: 5309. Richard A. Ruprecht opened the store in 1951 (c/o December 6, 1951) and sold it to Larry Ramsey when he retired in 1970. Ramsey and his family still own the business.

Walbom's Ladies Apparel: 5115. 1963-72. Roy and Irene Walbom had been in Lilac Way 1947-63. In 1970 the manager was Doris Evans.

Warner Hardware: 5025. May 1951-73. Over 11,000 people attended the grand opening of this store on May 8, 1951, the first to open in Miracle Mile. Wally Dahl was the manager 1951-1960+. It became the anchor of the Mile after Red Owl burned and expanded into its space in 1975 – Leo Seiwert was the manager. Warner Hardware was started by Leon C. Warner in 1875. It became St. Louis Park True Value store in October 1981 to December 2000. [In 1987, two 2,000 gallon oil tanks were removed.] . Downsized in 1992. Became a Jerry’s True Value, owned by Jerry Connolly, in January 2001.

Whitehall Mens Clothier: 5313/5315. September 1969-1977. Manager: Wendell Munson. Others whose names were on a 1971 ad were Jerry, Rick, and Todd.

Wigs Etc.: 5401. July 1989 to June 1993.

Wonderalls: 5217. 1983-84. This store was advertised as a factory outlet store, selling children’s clothing and fabric.

Woody’s Unfinished Furniture: 5217. Roger Smith. This store opened in June 1977 at 5007. They moved to 5217 in May 1984.

York Specialty Shops/York Frocks/York Stores: 5017. 1951-55. This store, the 33rd in a National chain, opened its doors in mid September 1951. Mrs. L. Strimple was slated to be the manager of the new store. The store's policy was "lovelier fashions for less."

Your Kinda Wallpaper: 5017. 1981 - Roger Smith

MIRACLE MILE STOREFRONTS

EXCEL BUILDING - OPENED 1953
 

5003

Dolbec Meats: 1954-72
Nutrition World/General Nutrition Center – 1971-2004. Opened in July 1971.

5005
Colonial Inn Bakery/Pantry: December 2, 1953 – 1960
Miracle Mile Liquors: 1958 to 1976
Lilac Way Bakery: 1964 Reideman's Bakery: 1964-72
(Bob’s Miracle Mile Bakery? 1981)
Omni Video: 1981 to 1983.
Benson Optical: June 1987 to August 1995
A.C.E.S. – Flight Simulation: March 1996 to October 2004
Contours Express: January 2005 -

5007
Fred G. Anderson: 1953-1964
Hennepin-Lake Printers and Stationers: 1964-1990
Michael Lynne’s Tennis Shop: September 1990 to November 2000
Filament: February 2002 -

5007- ½ (originally 5009)
Juvenile Shoes: 1953 – 1962
Riedeman’s Bakery: 1964-1972
Mrs. Scandia’s Bakery: 1984
Sun Seekers: 1984-85
Sandwich Express: April 1989 to July 31, 2004 – Adrian Haid
Subway: April 2005 -

5009 [Address of Excel Bldg. Offices]
Mee Sum Restaurant: 1980-1984
China Jade: April 1980 to August 31, 2005
Hong Kong Star: September 2005 -

Beauty Parlor

Fashion Beauty Shop: 1954 to 1960
Maxim’s Paul Hein Beauty Lounge: 1964-1970 (Lilac Way 1951-1964)
Finger Tip Salon: 1971-1975

5011 (Combined with 5013 in 1966)
Abdallah's Ice Cream 1953-1959
Mar-Gene Restaurant: 1959-1961
Miracle Mile Café: 1962-1964

5013
Fox's Boys Wear: 1953-78
Update Bed and Bath: 1984
Half Price Books: November 1986 to April 1998
Progressive Beauty: September 1998 to November 2000
Michael Lynne’s Tennis Shop: December 2000 -

5015 (possibly always connected to 5017)
Athlete’s Foot: July 1972-1973 - Rick Nelson
Seldon-Scarborough: 1975
Progressive Beauty Supply: 1989 to August 1998

5017 – 2 stories
Cook's: 1953-56
Fantle’s: 1956-1958
Stevenson's: 1962-72
Your Kinda Wallpaper: 1981
Half Price Books – 1995-2004 (5013-5017)

ORIGINAL SECTION - OPENED 1951

5021 (originally 5015)
Red Owl: 1951-73
Once Upon a Child: August 1993 -

5023
Lifescan Stand Up MRI: 2003 -

5025 – with basement
Warner Hardware: 1951-1981
SLP True Value: October 1981 to December 2000
Jerry’s Do It Best Hardware: January 2001

5101
Gabberts: 1951-53
Haines Specialty Store: 9/52
Dell Fabrics: 1953

5105
Don Leary: 1954-58
Niemeyer's: 1963 (65?) - 1973
Friendship Shop Expansion: 1973-2005

5111 (basement)
Betz Tots to Teens: 1951-60
Haugland's for the Young: 1960-71 (may have moved in 1966)
Braun’s Warehouse Sale: March 1972
(Moen) Friendship Shop: 1967 to May 31, 2005
Liquor Barrel: August 1, 2005 -

5115
Angela's: 1951-61
Walbom's: 1962-72
Elegant X: September 1980 to September 1989
Mailboxes Etc.: July 1990 to 2003
UPS Store: 2003 -

5201
W.T. Grant: 1951-1965
Becky's/Swiss Cafe: 1965-71 (two stories?)
Creative Expressions: February 1980 to February 2003
Schuler Shoes: 2005 -

5217
This store has a modest upstairs, but a huge basement that was under several other shops to the east. A large, prominent staircase led down to the lower level.
York Frocks: 1951-55
Fred G. Anderson: 1964-80
Leather Specialists [Unlimited]: 1981-84 [82 only]
Shape, Inc.: 1981 (basement)
Wonderalls: 1983-84 (basement)
Woody’s Unfinished Furnished Furniture: 1984 -

5225
Keller Brothers: 1952-1962
Parkview Camera and Gifts/Flowers: 1964-1968
Braun’s: 1968 to 1978
Pic-a-Dilly: 1978
Fashion Gal: 1980-85
Bullseye Golf: 1984 to July 1990
Marty Irving Golf Center: August 1990 to July 1991
Golf Club Factory: August 1991 to July 1993
Charley’s Market: 1994
Picture Warehouse: February to November, 1995. Dean Sanberg
All Paws Animal Hospital: February 2001

5301
Keefe Men's Wear: 1951-1967
Braun’s: 1968 to 1978
Pets Unlimited: October 1985 to September 1997
It’s About Games: May 1998 to October 1999
Plato’s Closet: June 2000 to May 31, 2005

5305
 John W. Heller: 1952-1958
Optics, Inc.: 1961-62
Plymouth Optical: 1964-1975
Kindy Optical: 1976
Command Performance – Wyman Spano: 1979-1980
Perfection Hairstyling: 1980-81
Excel/100 Hair Styling: January 1982 to September 1988
Hair Force: May 1989 to April 1995
Design Line: April 1997-

5309
Village Cleaners: 1951

5313/5315
First Federal: 1951-1956
Braun's: 1955-1968
Whitehall Clothiers: September 1969 to 1977
Bullseye Golf: 1978-79
Nelson’s Office Supply: June 1993 to May 1994
Back to School: October 1994 to March 1998
Progressive Beauty: June to August 1998
Dollar Market Plus: March to December 2000
Schuler Shoes Outlet: February 2001 – May 31, 2005

5317
Pink Pony: 1951-1972
Art Stone Theatrical/Dance and Bodywear: August 1976 to May 1995
New Balance: February 1997 to May 31, 2005

5321
Kinney Shoes: 1951-1961
Schuler Shoes: 1961-2005

5401
Fanny Farmer: 1951-1980
State of Art/Home State Art – Tom Patterson: October 1988 to April 1989
Wigs Etc.: July 1989 to June 1993
Café Sorella: November 1995 to November 1997
Crumley’s Coffee Cake: December 1997 to October 2000
Café Babette: November 2000 to November 2002
Coffee Café: December 2002

5405
Chicago Hat Bar: 1951-1952
Ostlund Jewelry: 1952-99
QuickMedX: February 2000 to July 31, 2001
The Ultimate Canvas: September 1, 2001 to 2002
Sun Mist Tanning Co.: 2002 to October 2005

5425
Snyder Drug: 1951-2003

Hoigaard's:  2006

Home    St. Louis Park History    History Index    About the Society    Research Resources
Brookside Timeline    Something In The Water    The Re-Echo    Contact Us

This information comes from a variety of sources: newspapers, books, yearbooks, phone directories, interviews, etc. Given the varied sources, we cannot guarantee that all of this information is correct, and welcome any additions and corrections. Please contact us with your contributions and comments.