@andyg_msp on Instagram
Andy Gifford is a local history enthusiast that also is a Tumblr pioneer. He was part of a group of Twin Cities Tumblr early adopters that gave us advice when we were just getting started on Tumblr in 2010. His Tumblr, Thomas Lowry’s Ghost is home of an interesting story about Prince and lots of local history. Andy also is a great photographer of local landmarks on Instagram. We especially like the photos he takes of houses and buildings that he captions with information from our city directory and building permit files.
How long have you lived in Minneapolis?
About 35 years, most of those in the Kingfield neighborhood. I also lived in St. Paul for about 6 years.
What got you into local history?
I don't know that there is one thing that got me into it. Though I remember taking an architecture class at a summer day camp when I was about 11 years old that made me start to look at buildings differently. We also took a field trip to the downtown riverfront to learn about the mills and the birth of modern Minneapolis. I remember being enamored of the Stone Arch Bridge and hoping that it would be preserved and be used again. (This was when it was still a railroad bridge.)
I also think watching the public television classic “Lost Twin Cities” really struck a nerve. I'd never seen black and white movie footage of Minneapolis before that! For whatever reason, it really made an impression on me. And still does, honestly.
When is your favorite time of day to take photos?
I'd say early morning or right before sunset. It's quiet, and the lighting is usually pretty good, especially in the summer.
What is your favorite part of the city to walk around?
I could spend an entire day wandering around Nicollet Island. That place fascinates me to no end. Another area I really admire is the Whittier Neighborhood. So much gorgeous architecture is still intact. And they have great alleys!
We have lost a lot of historic structures in Minneapolis. What building would you have liked to visit that has been demolished?
Definitely the Metropolitan Building. Its demise was emblematic of Minneapolis' unfortunate attitude towards historic preservation. Or maybe the West Hotel; another grand structure that would certainly be coveted today had it survived.
In that same vein, any famous Minneapolitans that you would have liked to meet?
Probably Floyd Olson, the former Governor of Minnesota. He called Minneapolis home most of his life; and was involved in some of the city's more high-profile moments. Both as Governor and as Hennepin County Attorney.
Here are some of our recent favorite posts by Andy of historic homes and buildings in Minneapolis:
Lustron Homes
Gooddale Theater
Lyndale Ave. houses built by G.R. Cumming, 1885
925 West Lake Street
Heartland Building
