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Hidden Fitzgerald Sites In St. Paul

Published:

by Wren Swain

hidden-fitzgerald-sites-in-st-paul

Have you ever wondered about the hidden gems in St. Paul connected to F. Scott Fitzgerald? This city, known for its rich history, holds many secrets about the famous author. Born in St. Paul, Fitzgerald spent his early years here, and his legacy lives on through various landmarks. From his birthplace to the homes he lived in, each spot tells a story. Walking through these streets, you can almost feel the inspiration behind his classic novels. Whether you're a literature buff or just curious, exploring these Fitzgerald sites in St. Paul offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's greatest writers.

Hidden Fitzgerald Sites in St. Paul

St. Paul, Minnesota, holds a treasure chest of hidden gems related to the life and works of F. Scott Fitzgerald. This literary giant spent much of his early years in this city, and many locations still echo his presence. Let's explore some of these lesser-known spots.

Birthplace and Early Homes

Fitzgerald's early years in St. Paul were spent in various homes that shaped his formative years. These places offer a glimpse into his childhood and family life.

  1. 481 Laurel Avenue
    This is where Fitzgerald was born on September 24, 1896. The house still stands, a testament to the beginning of a literary legend.

  2. 599 Summit Avenue
    The Fitzgerald family moved here when Scott was a toddler. This house is often overlooked but holds significant importance in his early development.

Schools and Education

Fitzgerald's education in St. Paul played a crucial role in his literary career. Several schools he attended still exist and offer a peek into his academic life.

  1. St. Paul Academy
    Located at 1712 Randolph Avenue, this is where Fitzgerald wrote his first published story. The school remains a cornerstone of his early writing career.

  2. Cathedral Hill
    This neighborhood is home to the Cathedral of St. Paul, where Fitzgerald attended mass. The area is rich in history and offers a sense of the community that influenced him.

Social and Cultural Spots

Fitzgerald's social life in St. Paul was vibrant and full of inspiration. These locations were central to his interactions and experiences.

  1. University Club of St. Paul
    Situated at 420 Summit Avenue, this club was a popular gathering spot for Fitzgerald and his friends. The club still operates, offering a historical ambiance.

  2. Commodore Hotel
    Now known as the Commodore Bar & Restaurant, this was a favorite hangout for Fitzgerald. Located at 79 Western Avenue, it retains much of its original charm.

Literary Landmarks

St. Paul is dotted with landmarks that celebrate Fitzgerald's literary contributions. These spots are must-visits for any fan of his work.

  1. F. Scott Fitzgerald House
    Also known as Summit Terrace, this house at 599 Summit Avenue is where Fitzgerald wrote parts of "This Side of Paradise." It's a designated National Historic Landmark.

  2. Fitzgerald Theater
    Located at 10 Exchange Street East, this theater was renamed in his honor. It hosts various performances and stands as a tribute to his lasting impact on literature.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known sites, St. Paul has some hidden gems that only true Fitzgerald aficionados might know about.

  1. White Bear Yacht Club
    Fitzgerald spent summers here, and it inspired some of his stories. The club, located at 56 Dellwood Avenue, offers a serene glimpse into his leisure activities.

  2. Summit Hill
    This neighborhood is filled with beautiful homes and streets that Fitzgerald often walked. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll to soak in the atmosphere that once inspired him.

Discovering Fitzgerald's St. Paul

Exploring F. Scott Fitzgerald's St. Paul offers a unique glimpse into the early life of one of America's greatest writers. From his birthplace on Laurel Avenue to the Summit Avenue homes where he penned his first stories, each site tells a piece of his story. Walking these streets, you can almost feel the inspiration that fueled his legendary works. Visiting the Cathedral of St. Paul and St. Paul Academy adds depth to understanding his formative years. Don't miss the Commodore Hotel, a favorite haunt of Fitzgerald and his contemporaries. Each location brings you closer to the man behind the novels. Whether you're a literary buff or just curious, these hidden gems in St. Paul provide a rich, immersive experience. Dive into the world of Fitzgerald and see how this city shaped his iconic voice.