That is the day Seward Neighborhood’s history committee kicks out the jams with
the book release party for A people’s History of the Seward Neighborhood.
We’re looking for a full house at the Seward Co-op Creamery Café at 2601 E.
Franklin Ave. (That’s the building with the big smokestack. Not the grocery.)
The party begins at 6 p.m. and the whole neighborhood plus all their friends
are invited. Parking will be tight, but there are spaces behind Seward Redesign
and Articulture off of the street behind the Creamery, Pautz Place.
Light snacks will be provided and Beverages can be purchased. Those who have
pre-purchased books can pick them up. And, of course, books will be available
for sale below the cover price at $25.00. But cash or check only. No plastic.
Contributors and editors will be there to answer questions and sign books.
The event is, literally, long awaited. The book itself has been in development
for seven years by a dedicated committee of the Seward Neighborhood Group with
the support of Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage grants through the
Minnesota Historical Society
Seward, with links to its Scandinavian tradition, has long been known for its
working-class ethos, liberal politics, and community activism. It has been home
to railroad porters and socialist agitators, a state governor and hippy bicycle
mechanics, state-of-the-art recording studios and people’s co-ops. If you’re a
long-time resident, you’ll want this book for a nostalgic look back at the days
before Interstate 94 and urban renewal. If you’re a newcomer, this book will
probably reveal important characters and events from the past that happened on
your block. If you have a friend or relative who has moved away, what a great
Christmas gift it would make.
Hurry on down; there is a limited number of book copies and we’ve heard folks
are planning to buy multiple copies. Don’t be disappointed.