... that is what has made "Growing Up in St. Paul" the most popular and widely read feature in the Ramsey County Historical Society's quarterly magazine, Ramsey County History.

... and that is why we urge you to tell us your own story, or the stories of your parents or grandparents, other family members, friends, neighbors...

... a "Growing Up in St. Paul" memoir also could be based on a cherished memory of a special event or a turning point in someone's life, perhaps your own...

... and it need not be set in St. Paul itself, but in a surrounding Ramsey County community instead.

A "Growing Up" memoir can be as short as 1,200 - 1,500 words (four or five double spaced pages) and as long or longer than 3,000 words (about 10 pages).

Ramsey County History is an award-winning magazine, published continually since its founding in 1964 and winner of two Certificates of Commendation from the American Association for State and Local History. Since 1992, when this feature was launched, we have published over 40 "Growing Up" stories.

"Growing Up" writers are not compensated for their stories, however they may will receive several copies of the magazine in which their article appears. Prior to publication, the written pieces are reviewed and edited as necessary by the magazine's editor.

"Growing Up in St. Paul" articles should be sent to John Lindley Editor, Ramsey County History, Ramsey County Historical Society, 75 West Fifth Street, Suite 323, St. Paul, MN 55102. Questions should be directed to (952) 922-2789.

See the Growing Up in St Paul article  Seeing, Talking To, Calling On Sprits: Grandma Minda's Adventures In Spiritualism   By Author Joanne Englund

Here's a list of some Growing up in St. Paul stories that people have shared with us : 

Bernice Fischer shared her memories of being a student at Mechanic Arts High School in the story titled "Mechanic Arts - An Imposing 'Melting Pot' High School that Drew Minorities Together"

DeAnne Marie Cherry took us on a "Stroll Down Memory Lane: Payne Avenue in the 1950's Was Like Living in a Small Town"

Bernice Fisher recalled how 'Homer Van Meter, a Member of the Karpis Gang, Was Shot Across the Street from our house'

Emily Panushka Erickson wrote the story "Czechs, Slovaks, Bohemians, And Kolache Dough Rising In The Warm Attic on West Seventh Street"

Ray Brown tells us all about Sam's Cash-And-Carry, The Tiger Store - Payne Avenue And The 1930's Depression

Arthur C. McWatt took us on a ride "Down St. Albans Hill In A Wooden Coasterwagon"

 Reuel D. Harmon shared his memories of Grandfather Durkee, growing up in St. Anthony Park, family lore of meteorites and the Dakota Conflict, performances at the old Metropolitan Opera House, and a letter of recommendation from Pierce Butler, Jr.

John Larson remembers growing up in the Merriam Park and North End neighborhoods in the late 1920s and the 1930s.He touchs upon treatments for his eye disease, the local swimming hole and blacksmith shop, the end of Prohibition, his "vision classes" at Webster and Irving Schools, exploring the new Ramsey County Courthouse, and riding the streetcars.