Exploring the History and Traditions of Benny Street at the University of Minnesota

Exploring Benny Street at the University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus is well-known for its distinct neighborhoods and lively student culture. One small but beloved area for students is Benny Street, a tucked-away corner near the St. Paul campus. With its unique location and history, Benny Street has become a favorite spot for UM students over the years.

The Origins of Benny Street

Benny Street is located just northwest of the main Minneapolis campus, situated between the St. Paul campus and the Mississippi River. It consists of two small connecting roads, Ben Street and Eustis Street, which lend the area its unofficial nickname.

The streets were named after notable Minnesotans Benjamin Kurtz and Ezra J. Eustis. Kurtz was an early pioneer farmer and landowner in the area, while Eustis helped establish railroads through Minnesota in the late 1800s.

Though unassuming and small, the intersection of these two streets has been a popular gathering place for University students for over 50 years. Its proximity to campus makes it a convenient spot to meet up. And its secluded, tree-lined character lends itself perfectly for students seeking both community and privacy.

What Makes Benny Street Special

For many University of Minnesota students, Benny Street holds a special place in their collegiate memories. The quirky location and atmosphere make it far more than just another city corner.

On nice days when the weather allows, you’re likely to find Benny Street filled with UM students studying, picnicking, playing music, or just hanging out and observing campus life pass by. The neighborhood’s charming residential homes and mature trees make it feel sheltered and secluded from the bustle of campus.

Plus, Benny Street has been historically known as a progressive, LGBTQ-friendly space for students to gather without judgement. It became a symbolically open-minded, counter-cultural hub during decades when such meeting spaces were fewer.

The area’s enduring yet quiet reputation for tolerance and intellectual freedom gives it a comfortable, unpretentious appeal for UMN students of all types.

Student Traditions and Lore

Beyond its laidback ambiance, Benny Street is also known as the site of many treasured University of Minnesota student traditions and lore.

Students report witnessing epic games of bike polo on the corner, impromptu public dance performances, spirited political debates, and more. Marching band parades are also known to occasionally pass through on game days, much to residents' chagrin.

For graduating seniors, painting the street with farewell messages has also become a beloved ritual each spring. Generations of nostalgic alumni likely have fond Benny Street memories.

Of course, Benny has also been the site of silly student antics and trouble over the years too. Neighborhood homeowners dealing with straying students and noise have a bit of a love-hate relationship with its popularity!

Visiting Historic Benny Street

If you find yourself at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, be sure to take a stroll down to explore the small but vibrant neighborhood known as Benny Street.

Go for a peaceful walk along its tree-lined sidewalks. Observe students relaxing and studying on front lawns. Or search for historic corner plaques explaining the origins of Ben Street and Eustis Street.

Benny Street captures a quintessential piece both of University history and culture. Current students and alumni alike have this humble corner to thank for decades of memories and community.

FAQs

Where is Benny Street located?

Benny Street refers to the intersection of Ben Street and Eustis Street, situated just northwest of the University of Minnesota's Minneapolis campus, near the St. Paul campus and along the banks of the Mississippi River.

Who was Benny Street named after?

The two small connecting streets that make up Benny Street were named after Benjamin Kurtz, an early local farmer, and Ezra J. Eustis, who helped establish Minnesota's railroad system in the late 1800s.

Why is Benny Street significant to the University?

For over 50 years, Benny Street has been a popular off-campus spot for UM students to hang out, picnic, play music, and come together as a community. It became known as a tolerant, progressive student space during less accepting times.

What are some Benny Street traditions?

Long-running student traditions connected to Benny Street include massive bike polo games, impromptu dance parties, public debates, marching band practices, and painting farewell messages on the street before graduation.