The Brick Alley in Stillwater, Minnesota was initially created to fuel the demand for gas after the supply of nearly free scrap wood from the lumber boom down the St. Croix dried up. The building housed what would be known as Northern States Power Company and was the original location for that company. 

 

For many years the building acted as a significant electrical substation, transferring power from hydro plants around the St. Croix Valley area. Large transformers filled the north building and there were offices used by NSP employees. 

 

Coal was kept on the south building by the smokehouse and a massive smokestack sat where the current bar is. Gas was piped out for many uses and the leftover byproduct was hauled away by rail. 

 

The building changed with technology needs and eventually transitioned to offices and headquartered the maintenance department. In the 1970s the building was purchased by local architect Michael McGuire and a group of investors. It was transformed into retail, dining, and office space. Clues to the building's past can be seen while walking the halls and the old building continues to be a fascinating part of Stillwater's history and has a vital role in its future.