On a dark February morning in 1971, an arthritic telegraph operator in Saint Paul received word that electricity would at long last be made available from the East. Minnesotans rejoiced. One could almost hear them. The switch was thrown and the frozen tundra was transformed overnight. First order of business; stoplights. Next on the list, the big plug-in at Cookhouse Recording Studios on Nicollet Avenue next to the Trolley Wash.

Business boomed. Boom. In 1983 Cookhouse, growing like an angry teen, moved to its present location, the Historic Lumber Exchange Building smack-dab in the bustling center of downtown Minneapolis. The transition went swimmingly; though several other tenants, unaccustomed to fun, cool, tie-less neighbors broke their leases and fled in horror.

In 1995 Doug Dixon and Jerry Stenstadvold bought the place from themselves at a 30% interest rate. Go figure.

So, yes. After 28 years…no, 32 years…okay now, wait…

Take two.

So, yes. After 178 years, Cookhouse Recording Studios marches proudly onward into the 23rd Century.

Cookhouse. Become a part of our history.