We are probably only one generation away from most residents having no memory, or maybe even knowledge, of the industry that built and transformed South Saint Paul. 

As a historian who teaches about the sense of place, and the power of memory through monuments, memorials and commemorations, I think we stand to lose a golden opportunity to preserve history and showcase our future for generations if we don't act to #SaveTheSSPGates.

Sign this petition if you want the city council to begin the process of turning this land into a multi-purpose commemorative park.

Reimagining this landscape can provide a sense of place that not only showcases our past, but can provide opportunities to showcase our current and future development as a city as well. For more than 30 years, South Saint Paul City Councils have chosen to not tear down the Armour Gates. However, more than 90% of the former stockyards land has already been redeveloped and nearly all of the physical features of the stockyards industry that shaped South Saint Paul's growth are gone. Now is the time to ask the South Saint Paul City Council to commit to preserving, restoring and showcasing the Armour Gates, and the land they sit on, to honor past generations, and to preserve them for future generations.

Learn more about how my students learned about the Armour Gates and concepts we've created in an effort to #SaveTheSSPgates

View concepts that 7th grade students at South Saint Paul Middle School have created for a redesign of the Armour Gates parcel of land.