Overview

The Shoreham Yards Roundhouse had an important role in Minneapolis’ railroad and economic history. 

• Location: 2800 Central Avenue Northeast
• Neighborhood: Columbia Park

Historic profile

The Shoreham Yards Roundhouse had an important role in Minneapolis’ railroad and economic history. The roundhouse was constructed in 1887. It was built on the southeastern corner of Shoreham Yards. It was uniquely semi-circular, one story tall, and built of red brick. It was built to store steam locomotives and originally had a large turntable in the center. Between 1887 and 1919, it grew from 18 stalls to 46 stalls. In the 1950s, the railroad switched to diesel locomotives. The roundhouse was then used as a service station with general storage. 

The Roundhouse was the central hub for the Minneapolis, Sault Ste. Marie & Atlantic Railroad company (the Soo Line). The Soo Line Company helped the milling industry grow in Minneapolis. It was created to transport flour east without going through Chicago.

Shoreham Yards had the largest and best railroad shops in the city. It provided employment for thousands of people who lived in Northeast Minneapolis. It was the only railyard shop to build complete locomotives in the city.

Canadian Pacific demolished the building in 2019.