Duluth Armory receives largest ever donation amid restoration

DULUTH, Minn. — For over 20 years, the Duluth Armory has been looking for funds and donations wherever they could them.

However, thanks to a very generous anonymous local, the finish line is in sight.

“We are so appreciative,” said Michelle Miller, co-executive director of the Armory Arts and Music Center. “This is a local supporter of the project who has been following the rehabilitation of the Duluth Armory, and we are so close to really getting this construction going.”

The reason for the words of appreciation is a $5,000,000 anonymous donation, which helps the Armory close the gap on getting the space up and running by its 2027 re-opening date.

“This is keeping us right on track so the exterior construction, and the plumbing, and the electric, and the elevators, and all the internal work can begin this Spring and Summer (of 2026),” said Miller. “This donation has really kept us right on track.”

The renovations and restorations are sure to be bringing back many of the events longtime Northland residents remember fondly.

“The space will be, of course, for music and entertainment,” said Miller. “There could be farmers markets or expos or maybe public auctions.”

“This is really a piece of the fabric of Duluthians, whether they grew up here, whether they’re third generation, or if they’ve been here for 10, 20, years, there are stories intertwined with this building.”

All this means that, come 2027, the next generation of Duluthians will get their turn to once again make memories at the Armory.

The Duluth Armory is still looking for donations to help put the finishing touches on their fundraising campaign.

That information, as well as how to tour the renovations for yourself, can be found on the Armory’s website.