GALE’S MARKET HOUSE

Debra Deutch Erickson:

In the 1880s, Gale’s Market House offered farm produce at Bridge Square. Located at Hennepin Avenue and 1st Street, Bridge Square was the center of commerce and government in 19th century Minneapolis. Gale’s Market was a popular destination, not only for farm produce but also for the literary and musical entertainment in the hall over the market.

Courtesy Hennepin County Library

Harlow A. Gale was the market master of the building, and the third floor was “crying out to be used”  Gale invented the Dime Concert series, presenting entertainment every Saturday night.  The concept spread to large cities back east, if you believed the newspapers.

ASSOCIATION HALL  In October 1877 the YMCA took over the Market Hall, and “so arranged it that there were two halls, seating 500 and 500 persons, which might be thrown into one large assembly known as Association Hall.”  Not exactly sure what that means.  Minneapolis Tribune, February 3, 1935.

Courtesy Hennepin County Library

Minneapolis Tribune, February 3, 1935