Norwood Young America

Pavilion Restoration

saving history. making more.

On the eve of celebrating its 105th birthday, the historic Norwood Young America Pavilion was nearly torn down to make way for a new structure. Located forty miles west of downtown Minneapolis, the townspeople of NYA were divided on the fate of the Pavilion. Town chatter and public meetings brought forth passionate pleas to either “save” or “destroy” the building. Built in 1900 by German settlers, the Pavilion’s rich history is matched by its solid wood construction and beautiful maple floor. Perhaps most important, the NYA Pavilion is home to Minnesota’s oldest cultural celebration called “Stiftungsfest” (Founders' Day Festival).