RSVP HERE! (required due to overwhelming interest)

Free and open to the public - but spaces are limited! Get ready for a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Aveda building. Built in 1926 as a Masonic Lodge, it is an iconic neighborhood landmark known for its dramatic gothic facade. This tour will bring us INSIDE to see its equally gorgeous interiors, including the rarely seen ballroom on the top floor. Tour starts at 4pm sharp - meet in the front lobby.
Happy hour at Whitey’s Old Town Saloon just block away afterwards.

Historic Background

In 1926 the Cataract Lodge #2 A.F. & A.M. (Ancient Free & Accepted Masons) constructed this building to house their lodge with five affiliated Masonic groups. Named after the Falls of St. Anthony, the Cataract Lodge was chartered in 1852 and was the first Masonic group formed in Minneapolis and the third oldest lodge in Minnesota. The lodges occupied the upper floors with stores and offices on the first and second floors. After the Masons moved in 1946, it was occupied by a string of department stores, a vocational school, and a church. In 1982, Horst Rechelbacher purchased the building for his beauty school, which would later become the Aveda Institute. Designed by the architectural firm of Fallows, Huey, & Macomber, this building is architecturally significant as a well-preserved example of a Venetian/Late Gothic Revival style commercial structure. The exterior showcases horizontal brick mosaic patterns accented by intricate terra cotta trim details.  Note the Masonic symbols on the octagonal bartizan directly above you on the corner of Central and 4th that serves as a reminder of its original occupants.

About Our Monthly Meetups

We meet monthly on or around the last Thursday of each month. This is an informal and engaging opportunity for anyone interested in helping promote the neighborhood to brainstorm and communicate. Tell your friends and bring or send anyone with your business!