Morgan Park Neighborhood Celebrates 100 Years
Historic Area in Western Duluth Celebrates Centennial
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Few places can truly stand the test of time.
“We were a family, the whole Morgan Park was a family,” said Irene Puchalla.
But 100 years calls for a celebration.
“I think it’s wonderful that we’re still here and we’re back in this building,” Puchalla laughed.
Friday, residents of Morgan Park honored the centennial of their neighborhood at a historic part of town.
“This building is really the heartbeat of the neighborhood business district,” explained Morgan Park resident Dean Vogtman.
The Lake View Store, built in 1915 and recognized as America’s first indoor mall, represents the principles Morgan Park was built on.
“It was built by U.S. Steel, so you actually had to work for U.S. Steel in order to live in the neighborhood originally,” explained Vogtman.
Irene Puchalla has lived in Morgan Park for 59 years. Friday’s gathering brought her back.
“Everything was here, our dentist office, our doctors, this was our place to go,” Puchalla smiled.
Her husband worked for U.S. Steel.
“If he was working the night shift, then our kids would have to go down the block and play at another child’s house,” Puchalla said.
For both long–time residents and newer members of the community, Friday was a day to commemorate heritage, history, and most importantly, community.
“Everybody knows each other, you know it’s just that way,” Puchalla smiled.
Saturday, 9:30 AM-11:30 AM – Walk for Hope Breast Cancer Fundraiser – Good Fellowship Community Center
Saturday, 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM – Design Duluth Historical Display – Lake View Store
Saturday, 3:00 PM-6:00 PM – Morgan Park Community Picnic – Good Fellowship Community Center
Sunday, 12:00 PM-3:00 PM – Lakeview Car Show “All Class” People’s Choice, Bay West parking lot
