A Neighborhood Evolves
How Cathedral Hill weathered the challenges of the 20th century and emerged as one of Saint Paul's most desirable neighborhoods.
Like many urban neighborhoods across America, Cathedral Hill experienced significant changes during the 20th century. The story of its evolution — through periods of decline and renewal — reflects broader patterns in American urban life and demonstrates the resilience of neighborhoods built on strong foundations.
The first half of the 20th century brought gradual change to Cathedral Hill. As the original wealthy families aged and their children moved to newer suburbs, many of the grand homes were subdivided into apartments or converted to institutional use. The Great Depression and World War II further accelerated this transition, as maintaining large Victorian homes became increasingly difficult and expensive.
By the 1960s and 1970s, parts of Cathedral Hill had fallen into serious disrepair. Urban renewal programs — well-intentioned but often destructive — threatened to demolish historic buildings in favor of modern development. The construction of Interstate 94 along the neighborhood's southern edge displaced residents and businesses, creating a physical barrier between Cathedral Hill and the areas to the south.
The preservation movement of the 1970s and 1980s proved to be the neighborhood's salvation. Residents, historians, and advocates organized to protect the area's architectural heritage, securing National Register of Historic Places designations for Summit Avenue and surrounding districts. These protections, combined with growing appreciation for Victorian architecture and urban living, attracted new residents who were willing to invest in restoring the neighborhood's historic buildings.
The revitalization accelerated through the 1990s and 2000s, as restaurants, shops, and cultural institutions established themselves along Selby and Grand avenues. The neighborhood's walkability, historic character, and proximity to downtown made it increasingly attractive to young professionals, families, and anyone who valued urban living in a beautiful, historic setting.
Today, Cathedral Hill is one of Saint Paul's most desirable and vibrant neighborhoods. Its mix of carefully preserved historic architecture, excellent restaurants and shops, cultural institutions, and active community life makes it a model of successful urban revitalization.