For centuries a lakeside setting for the Dakota; now a bustling park and quiet neighborhood. This tour traces the transformation of the landscape by the Minneapolis Park Board, as well as the development of the East Harriet community.
In the 1870's, Colonel William S. King envisioned his countryside estate, Lyndale Farm, one day being transformed into a public park and unrivaled residential setting at Lake Harriet. On this tour we will visit Lyndale Park and adjoining residences extending east from Lake Harriet. Several contemporary accounts will be shared, reflecting efforts by early residents to protect the community from influence by outsiders, from Lake Harriet bathers to city planners seeking short cuts for commercial traffic.
The tour walks less than 1.5 miles. This tour is not ADA accessible. Tour participants should wear shoes suitable for walking across grass.
The tour guide, Peter Sussman, grew up around the Chain of Lakes and has been exploring the history of surrounding communities for over 35 years. An architect and urban historian, he chaired the Preserve Minneapolis Summer Tour committee through 2021 and enjoys leading tours which recognize all who have built up and lived in this unique city.