Context Study of Historic Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS), 1890-1978

Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) was founded in 1856 and is one of the oldest continuously operating entities in Minnesota's capital city. Twenty-six SPPS buildings, still in use, were built before 1930. As a result of the Baby Boom, the district has 22 schools built in the 20 years following WWII alone. Immigration brought an influx of new citizens to Saint Paul in the 1970s, another peak time for building schools in the city. Our public-school buildings represent many decades and styles of architecture and contain within them a history of changes in our society and education practice.

This grant-funded a historic context of Saint Paul Public Schools, focusing on the period between 1890 and 1978. In-depth research on the district's development was conducted at various archives and repositories. The report identifies significant periods of growth, and the factors that influenced the design, construction, and closure of school properties. Notable architectural styles, features, and architects are also discussed. The report concludes with recommendations for a future intensive-level survey.