The Story Behind the Name

We do not know for certain how Oliver & Wendell received its name. However, it is believed to recognize two Minnesotans who made a lasting impact on the state: Oliver Hudson Kelley and Wendell Anderson.

History Leaders

Portrait of Oliver Hudson Kelley, Minnesota farmer and founder of the National Grange

Oliver Hudson Kelley

Oliver Hudson Kelley was a Minnesota farmer and one of the founders of the National Grange, also known as the Patrons of Husbandry.

Founded in 1867, the Grange gave farmers a way to connect, exchange ideas, learn from one another, and work together on issues affecting their families and communities. Kelley believed farmers were stronger when they had a shared voice and access to better information.

That cooperative approach remains an important part of Minnesota’s history.

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Wendell R. Anderson

Wendell Anderson served as Governor of Minnesota from 1971 to 1976 and later represented the state in the U.S. Senate.

As governor, he helped pass the education and tax reforms that became known as the Minnesota Miracle. The legislation changed how Minnesota funded schools and other public services, reducing their dependence on local property taxes and helping provide more equal opportunities across the state.

Anderson was also a University of Minnesota hockey player and a member of the 1956 U.S. Olympic hockey team.

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Official portrait of Wendell R. Anderson, former Governor of Minnesota

A Connection to Riverton

The work of Oliver Kelley and Wendell Anderson reflects values that are also important to Riverton Community Housing. Riverton was founded on the belief that residents should have a voice in their housing and that communities are stronger when people take an active role in them. Today, residents across our Minneapolis housing cooperatives help make decisions, care for shared spaces, and shape the communities they call home.

We may not know the full story behind the Oliver & Wendell name, but the connection is fitting. Both men believed in bringing people together and creating opportunities that strengthened Minnesota communities.

We are proud to honor these two great Minnesotans by carrying their names and striving to live out their values every day for our residents.

Choose Your Lifestyle

At Oliver & Wendell, we offer a variety of 1- and 2-bedroom apartment floor plans to help you create a lifestyle that perfectly suits your unique needs and personality.

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