Site Report #3: The Audio Tour
Block 45 is between 11th and Roosevelt and 47th and 45th St NE.
Previously, Emerson bought the block, which at the time consisted only of dirt and forest. It was later transformed and included wooden paved roads, which served as a base for horse carriages, one of the earliest forms of transportation.
As time went on, the block was further improved and the streets were refurbished to cemented roads, allowing the usage of trolley cars and mobiles. This was important because it facilitated the transportation of goods and prevented horse carriage accidents, a common occurrence during the time of the wooden paved roads.
During Emerson’s time, the block did not have access to the railroad or any imported goods, unlike today where the block is surrounded by booming businesses. Currently, the exhibit consists of fairly leveled paved roads and is host to a Mazda dealership on Roosevelt Way and Bridges @ 11th on 11th St NE.
Upon visiting the block, I was able to meet with a representative from Mazda dealership who gave me insight into the history of the building. Though Mazda had been around since the 70’s it was previously located in the corner of Roosevelt and 47th, which is currently their Mazda Detail Shop. At the time, the Shop served Chevy instead of Mazda because the owner, Howard Anderson was a car dealer for many different companies, including Chevrolet from 1970 to 1989. The Mazda dealership moved further down the block to its current location, Roosevelt and 45th due to the high demand for a bigger and “flashier” show room. The space on Roosevelt and 47th then became their Mazda detail shop, a building that presently washes and details their cars.
The opposite side of the block consists of Bridges at 11th, a building that offers housing and retail space. Previously, the block consisted of family housing that was owned by the University. This offered a place for graduate students that were recently married to live with their families while still being at close proximity to the school. Bridges @ 11th is still owned by the University and continues to offer housing to ALL students.