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Grain and Lumber Exchange Building
Grain & Lumber Exchange Building.jpg
The Grain and Lumber Exchange Building viewed from the north
Grain and Lumber Exchange Building is located in Minnesota
Grain and Lumber Exchange Building
Location in Minnesota
Grain and Lumber Exchange Building is located in the United States
Grain and Lumber Exchange Building
Location in the United States
Location 51 East 4th Street, Winona, Minnesota
Area Less than one acre
Built 1900
Built by John Lohse
Architect Kees & Colburn
Architectural style Renaissance Revival
NRHP reference No. 77000774
Designated  December 2, 1977

The Grain and Lumber Exchange Building is a historic office building in Winona, Minnesota. Built in 1900, this impressive building was designed in the Renaissance Revival style. It was a key location for businesses involved in the grain and lumber trades, which were very important to Winona's economy at the time.

This building was recognized for its special design and history when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. It stands out as one of Winona's most unique office buildings from the early 1900s.

A Look at Its Design

The Grain and Lumber Exchange Building was designed by the well-known architectural firm Kees & Colburn. They chose the Renaissance Revival style, which was popular around the turn of the 20th century. This style often uses grand features inspired by old European buildings from the Renaissance period.

You can see this style in the building's strong, balanced look and its detailed decorations. It was built to look important and lasting, reflecting the success of the businesses that would operate inside.

A Hub for Trade

Completed in 1900, the building was specifically made for its first tenants, even though they were mostly renting the spaces. These tenants were involved in the grain and lumber exchange. This means it was a place where people bought and sold large amounts of grain and lumber, which were major industries in Winona.

Winona, located on the Mississippi River, was a busy port city. It was a perfect spot for trading goods like timber from northern forests and grain from nearby farms. The Grain and Lumber Exchange Building became a central spot for these important business deals.

Why It's Special

The Grain and Lumber Exchange Building is important for several reasons. First, its architecture is truly distinctive, making it stand out among other buildings from its time in Winona. It shows the skill of the architects, Kees & Colburn.

Second, it highlights Winona's history as a thriving center for trade and commerce. The building served as a hub for the grain and lumber industries, which helped Winona grow and prosper. Its listing on the National Register of Historic Places means it's recognized as a significant part of American history and architecture.

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