What Payne Avenue Has to Say 

Geography students explore St. Paul’s East Side to learn about its immigrant history, future visions, and what investing in community looks like

By Alexandra McLaughlin ’16

Professor Dan Trudeau’s course, Qualitative Research Methods in Geography, is taking learning beyond the classroom and into the heart of the Payne-Phalen neighborhood in St. Paul. 

Partnering with the East Side Freedom Library, the class is creating an interactive digital story map of Payne Avenue, connecting its history with visions for the future. 

“This is an opportunity for students to gain confidence in qualitative research methods,” Prof. Trudeau said. “These methods, like interviews and observations, are great for answering how and why questions.”

“This is an opportunity for students to gain confidence in qualitative research methods,” Prof. Trudeau said. “These methods, like interviews and observations, are great for answering how and why questions.”

The East Side Freedom Library—co-founded by retired Macalester history professor Peter Rachleff and theater and dance professor Beth Cleary—is a repository for community knowledge and traditions. The project began with a walking tour led by Rachleff, an experience that Caroline Fitzpatrick ’26 (Moraga, Calif.) called “really special” for setting the tone and inspiring deeper connections to the Payne-Phalen neighborhood. 

For over a century, immigrants have shaped the neighborhood, with waves of migration continuing today from Hmong, Karen, and Somali communities.

Each student selected a local spot to feature in the story map, from restaurants to community organizations. Fitzpatrick chose Gentleman Cuts, a barbershop owned by Mr. Red, who she described as “super friendly and supportive of what we’re doing,” and interested in serving as a positive role model for Black youth in the community.

The class explores themes of resilience and community investment—such as through time, funds, or helping out neighbors. They stumbled across a street festival which featured a diverse group of artists, each sharing unique stories and works. Fitzpatrick noted that Mr. Red supported the event by displaying paintings in the barbershop’s front window, contributing to the atmosphere of solidarity. Students also connect with community members through business association meetings and one-on-one interviews. 

“Interviewing is a craft,” Prof. Trudeau said. “It’s about balancing the transactional nature of research with the human need for connection.”

Fitzpatrick was pleasantly surprised by the enthusiasm the class received from businesses on Payne Avenue as they explored the neighborhood’s history, change, and visions for the future.

“I was nervous at first, worried they might not want to participate,” they said. “But most were eager to share their stories.”

She looks forward to class every Tuesday and Thursday. “We build off each other’s energy—it’s such a collaborative atmosphere.”

And Professor Trudeau? “He’s one of a kind,” Fitzpatrick said. “He empowers us to pursue initiatives and is supportive, but gives us space to be independent. I’m so happy to be taking this course, but especially under the guidance of Dan.”