Our History

An early view of the building that is now home to Hampden Park Co-op.

Rooted in Community

Hampden Park Co-op’s roots go back to 1973, when neighbors came together around a shared commitment to good food, cooperation, and community. In 1993, the organization became the member-owned cooperative we know today.

For decades, Hampden Park Co-op has remained a small, independent neighborhood grocery store where everyone is welcome to shop and anyone can become an owner.

Our Historic Home

Hampden Park Co-op is located in a historic building constructed in 1902 and designed by Minnesota architect Charles R. Aldrich. Aldrich also designed several notable Minnesota buildings, including the University of Minnesota Armory.

For many years, the building was owned by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal and service organization. It also served for a time as the organization’s Minnesota headquarters.

The co-op operated on the building’s ground floor for approximately 30 years before purchasing the property from the Odd Fellows in 2009. The purchase was made possible through owner-member loans, New Markets Tax Credits, and financing from Midway Bank. After a café moved out of the building, the co-op expanded into the available space. The building continues to be shared with several other tenants.

Where Our Name Comes From

Hampden Park Co-op takes its name from nearby Hampden Avenue and Hampden Park. Both were named after John Hampden, an English politician who opposed King Charles I in the years leading up to the English Civil War. Hampden became widely known after refusing to pay a controversial tax imposed by the king.

Today, our historic building remains an important part of the neighborhood and a lasting home for our community-owned co-op.