History

For those who celebrate heritage, progress, and purpose, Mill District Event Spaces offer a setting steeped in history and refined in elegance. Here, amidst the echoes of Minneapolis’ industrial past, our meticulously restored spaces and impeccable service create an atmosphere of distinction, ideal for events that honor legacy and inspire greatness.

Nestled in the heart of Minneapolis' historic Mill District, our event spaces are more than just venues—they are a living testament to the city’s rich industrial heritage and vibrant transformation. From its origins as a hub of agricultural innovation to its current role as a premier destination for elegant gatherings, Mill District Event Spaces blend timeless architecture with modern sophistication.

Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a non-profit gala, or an intimate celebration, our spaces offer a unique connection to Minneapolis’ past while providing state-of-the-art amenities for today’s events. Explore the history behind our iconic location and see how it has evolved into the stunning backdrop for unforgettable moments.

Timeline

1844

Visionary inventor and entrepreneur Jerome Case played a seminal role in transforming agriculture in the 19th century. His pioneering innovations in farm equipment began with the creation of his first threshing machine in 1844, setting the foundation for a legacy that endured through the 20th century.

1863

As his enterprise flourished, Jerome Case formally established J.I. Case and Company.

1880

The company was renamed the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Company, reflecting its burgeoning prominence in agricultural innovation.

By 1882, the J.I. Case Plow Company was actively marketing its wares at 308–310 Third Avenue North in Minneapolis.

1882

Diversifying into related products, J.I. Case had, by 1886, ascended to the status of the world’s largest steam-engine manufacturer.

1886

William Henry Eustis, a lawyer, real estate magnate, and mayor of Minneapolis from 1893 to 1895, foresaw the need for industrial expansion beyond the congested North Minneapolis warehouse district. He championed the development of a new industrial district on the southern edge of downtown, despite the area’s notorious reputation for “Fish Alley,” an infamous slum.

1893

1900

The Star Tribune, in a scathing exposé titled "The Passing of Fish Alley" (March 25, 1900), decried the area as the “slum of all slums,” infamous for its criminal activity and disorderly inhabitants. The article vividly warned, “Woe be to the stranger within the gates of Minneapolis who chances to wander near this block.”

1906

When J.I. Case acquired the land, the dilapidated Fish Building, which had lent its name to the notorious alley, was demolished.

1907

In its place rose the J.I. Case Building, a sophisticated branch house of the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Company.

1908

Minneapolis achieved global recognition as the largest distribution hub for agricultural implements, according to the Guide to the Industrial Archeology of the Twin Cities.

Case’s production of steam engines reached its zenith, marking record-breaking sales the following year.

1911

By 1915, the manufacture and distribution of agricultural equipment had eclipsed the flour and grain trade as Minneapolis’ most lucrative industry, as noted by the Guide to the Industrial Archeology of the Twin Cities.

1915

1920

Responding to the mechanization demands accelerated by World War I, Case introduced its first combine, revolutionizing agriculture with a machine capable of both harvesting and threshing.

1927

Case produced its final steam engine, capping an extraordinary era during which it had manufactured a staggering one-third of all steam-powered agricultural equipment in the nation.

The evolution of farm tractors positioned Case as the third-largest American manufacturer, even as the Great Depression and a severe drought presented significant challenges. The company adapted by removing "Threshing Machine" from its name, rebranding as the J.I. Case Company.

1930

During World War II, the facility shifted its focus to support the war effort, later resuming its agricultural equipment production to meet post-war demand.

1939

1953

Case manufactured its final thresher in the Minneapolis building.

1959

Case relocated its headquarters to Eagan, and the Minneapolis building transitioned to housing Minneapolis House Furnishings.

1990s

In the early 1990s, the building underwent a transformation into office spaces and a restaurant, The Old Spaghetti Factory, an Italian-themed dining establishment.

2019

Sherman Associates acquired and renovated the historic structure, converting it into a mixed-use space that includes their corporate headquarters.

Mill District Event Spaces, including the luxurious Solus Spa, debut, redefining the building as a premier destination for events and rejuvenation in Minneapolis.