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THE DEPOT MINNEAPOLIS REVIVES A PIECE OF HISTORY
September 26, 2007
THE DEPOT MINNEAPOLIS REVIVES A PIECE OF HISTORY
Storytelling contest winners announced
MINNEAPOLIS September 26, 2007 The Depot Minneapolis holds a significant place in the history of the downtown Minneapolis. Located along the Mississippi River, The Depot was a key element in the citys emerging transportation system during its peak in the 1920s.
Recently, this historic venue was completely renovated and converted to the prestigious Marriott brand, Renaissance. In conjunction with the renovation and conversion, The Depot commissioned a naming and storytelling contest to assist in the re-creation of the tales of former travelers. These eight travelers, each marking a time and place of significance for the building, are displayed throughout The Depot and are part of an extensive collection of art and artifacts from the time period.
On September 12, 2007, the eight winners of the story writing contest were announced and all of the travelers were displayed at a gala celebrating the rebirth of The Depot complex. Although each story depicts a unique tale of times gone by, five are based on real life characters who lived in the time when trains were the preferred mode of transportation.
The Depots history is rich with stories, and this was a great chance for people to share their memories, pay tribute to a loved one or let their creativity take shape, explained Robb Hall, managing director of The Depot Minneapolis, A Renaissance Hotel. We were pleased to receive so many entries for the contest and felt that all of the winners truly honored the spirit of this venues heyday as a train station.
Revisit the halls of The Depot and become better acquainted with the statues as you read each commemorative plaque, naming and telling the story of each sculpture. Or take a moment to study their pictures and new stories on The Depots web site, www.TheDepotMinneapolis.com/ghoststories.
The Depot is a highly visible locale near the new Guthrie Theater and is in the heart of the revitalized Mill District of Minneapolis. Originally serving as a train station, The Depot reopened its doors as a hotel and meeting space in 2001. The building incorporates Renaissance Revival old world charm architecture with modern amenities such as an indoor water park and seasonal indoor ice skating rink. The Depot is owned and managed by CSM Lodging.
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About CSM Lodging
CSM Lodging is a division of CSM Corporation, which owns and operates 37 properties across the United States under the Marriott, Hilton and Carlson brands. CSM Lodging has been recognized as Marriott's "Developer of the Year" for an unprecedented two years in a row. For more information, visit www.csmlodging.net.
CSM Corporation, founded in 1976, is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn. CSM Corporation engages in the acquisition, development, leasing, management, and ownership of quality real estate assets. The companys extensive portfolio includes retail, industrial, multi-family residential and hotel properties across the continental United States. For more information, visit www.csmcorp.net.
The mission of CSM Lodging is to develop and manage the finest hotels through an association with the best brands, and to continuously deliver outstanding guest servic