Most people know the world-famous Rockettes, Radio City Music Center, and Rockefeller Center. What most don’t realize is that the man who created it all, Samuel “Roxy” Rothafel, grew up nearby in Stillwater.
On July 9, there will be a free open house in Stillwater from 3-6 p.m. to honor Rothafel on what would have been his 144th birthday. The event is at Rothafel’s childhood home at 233 S. Second St.
Tony Bol, business owner of Share with Others, explained that he felt destined to tell Rothafel’s story as both men worked as impresarios running theaters, and lived in the same building.
“I couldn’t let the coincidence go by,” Bol said. “He created all those things. This kid from Stillwater. I was a Stillwater boy doing the same thing.”
Bol explained that community members are often shocked when they hear about Roxy’s story.
“If that big of a person came from this small of a town and did that, and then it was forgotten, it is an important story to tell,” said Bol.
Rothafel was born into a poor family, where his father was a shoemaker. He served in the Marines before beginning his career in creating theatrical experiences.
According to Jewish Currents, Rothafel was quoted as saying, “Don’t give the people what they want, give them something better!”
Despite his national influence, Roxy Rothafel’s name has faded from public memory. Bol explains that this is largely due to the nature of radio.
“He didn’t make recordings or write songs or books,” he said. “Those are the things that stick.”
The celebration on July 9 aims to change this narrative. Some highlights include New York-style kosher hot dogs, kosher pickles, a DJ, and a Rockette-style performance by Curio Dance at 5 p.m.
Bol doesn’t know if this celebration will become an annual tradition. However, organizers hope this will spark interest amongst the public in Roxy Rothafel’s legacy.
Rothafel may never reach name recognition like Minnesota icons Bob Dylan and Judy Garland. However, Bol believes that his story deserves a spot in the state’s legacy.
“It is almost like a little keepsake memory,” Bol said. “One more reason to be proud of Minnesota.”