Arthur and Edith Lee House, Historic residence in Field neighborhood, Minneapolis, United States

The Arthur and Edith Lee House is a two-story residential building from 1923 at 4600 Columbus Avenue, displaying typical features of kit houses from that era. The construction follows the standardized designs that were common during that time period.

The house became the home of Arthur and Edith Lee in 1931, making them the first African American homeowners in their neighborhood. Their purchase triggered massive protests involving thousands of white residents who demanded their departure.

The property marks a turning point in Minneapolis housing integration, shaped by the local NAACP chapter. Visitors can see how this place became a symbol of resistance against discrimination for the community.

The property is open for educational programs focused on civil rights and housing discrimination. Visitors should check in advance what programs are currently available, as the building mainly functions as a learning space.

A plaque and effigy now stand on the corner of the lot, though the house itself remains a private residence. Interest in the property revived in 2001, when a law professor published an article on attorney Lena O. Smith and her role in the 1931 standoff. That research led to the National Register listing in 2014.