Hermann Kretz collection

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: N22

Staff Only

Scope and Content Note

The papers include one reel of 35 mm microfilm of blueprint plans for two apartment houses in St. Paul, both dated around 1890, designed for Charles Otis. Both sets of plans contain 7 sheets, or frames. There are also two photographs of the Kasota Block and adjacent Northwestern Building in Minneapolis (ca. 1920), five photos forming a panorama of the St. Paul Athletic Club, City Hall & Court House, Globe Building, Commerce Building, and Hotel Lowry (ca. 1953), all in St. Paul, plus a photo of Kretz (n.d.) and specifications for the Commerce Building, St. Paul (ca. 1911).

Dates

1890-1953

Creator

Kretz, Hermann, 1860-1931 (Person)

Language of Materials

English

Restrictions on Access

Available for use in the Manuscripts Division reading room. Advance notice is requested.

Restrictions on Use

There are no restrictions on the use of materials in this collection. Copies can be requested if the condition of the originals warrants it.

Biographical Note

Hermann Kretz was born in Essen, Germany on May 20, 1860. At the age of 19, Kretz went to work for his uncle as an architect, after completing his education at the University of Essen and the Technical School at Holzminden. In about 1880 he immigrated to the United States and worked in New York City, Chicago, Winnipeg, and various other western cities before settling in St. Paul in 1886. Kretz became wealthy not only from his successful architectural practice but from investments in real estate, including the Commerce Building in downtown St. Paul, which he designed and built in 1912. Hermann Kretz died in St. Paul on May 10, 1931.