Harriet Island Pavilion

Harriet Island Pavilion is a building in Streamline Moderne style that sits along the Mississippi River with clean lines and Kasota limestone walls. Its open interior space faces the water and connects directly to the surrounding park grounds.

The building was constructed between 1941 and 1942 as part of a job-creation program during difficult economic times. Its limestone blocks came from the demolition of the old Saint Paul City Hall in 1933.

The pavilion was designed by Clarence W. Wigington, the first Black municipal architect in the United States, whose work shapes public spaces along the river. His designs continue to define how people gather in Saint Paul.

The space can be rented for different kinds of events and works well for small to medium gatherings. Visitors should know the grounds become windy and cold during winter months, so dress appropriately for the season.

The limestone blocks of the building are often overlooked, yet they are salvaged remains from a much older and well-known structure. This practice of reusing materials shows a practical approach to building that has returned to importance in recent years.

Location: Saint Paul

Architects: Clarence W. Wigington

Architectural style: Streamline Moderne

GPS coordinates: 44.93750,-93.09722

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:07