To truly experience the vibrancy of a great American city, one must immerse themselves in its core – among the individuals who bring it to life through their daily activities, innovations, and interactions. The Pioneer and Endicott Buildings, masterfully designed by celebrated architects Cass Gilbert and Solon Beman, have been at the epicenter of this urban dynamism since their inception in 1889 and 1890. From their earliest days housing the St. Paul Pioneer Press, where visionaries recognized the transformative power of skyscrapers and telegraphy in shaping St. Paul’s modern identity, these buildings have been a cradle for dreams. Generations of lawyers, bankers, architects, scientists, and civic leaders have shaped their ambitions within these walls. For decades, the 16 stories of Pioneer Endicott mirrored the city’s aspirations, growth, and evolution.
Time had obscured many of the buildings’ unique architectural details, yet their essence remained intact, awaiting a visionary restoration. Thanks to the current ownership, this St. Paul architectural gem has been thoughtfully revived. The Pioneer Endicott complex has been reborn as a vibrant hub where people can once again live, work, and enjoy life in Minnesota’s capital city center. Luxury apartments now occupy spaces once reserved for executives, attracting empty nesters and young professionals who value urban living and convenient access to public transport. The former post office has been transformed into a state-of-the-art fitness center, while Legacy Chocolates, a local favorite, offers artisanal treats and coffee where executive offices once stood, adjacent to a yoga studio, florist, and the unique Gypsy Moon boutique.
The Pioneer-Endicott’s ground floor, a space continually adapted and reimagined over time, now hosts the Minnesota Museum of American Art, known as “the M.” Founded in 1894 as the St. Paul School of Fine Arts, coinciding with the rise of the Pioneer and Endicott Buildings, the M has evolved through numerous iterations, much like its new home. Today, this revitalized building complex and the M – St. Paul’s premier art museum – are poised to flourish together, driven by a shared respect for history and a commitment to strong community engagement – the kind fostered by living, working, socializing, and creating in a shared space.
Discover more about the contemporary Pioneer Endicott at pioneerendicott.com.
