State Theatre

Feb 5, 1921: State Theatre opens on the former site of the Walker family homestead. It cost approximately $1 million and was designed by Chicago architect J.E.O. Pridmore. At the time, it was considered the most technologically advanced and elaborate theatre in the US. The original floor was glass, which allowed direct lighting from underneath. The State boasted the first well driven air-conditioning system in Minneapolis- pumps, pipes & vents which delivered cool air using artesian well water 840 feet underground, keeping the temperature at 72 degrees. The opening night program included a silent film, newsreel and travelogue.