The five-building complex that comprises IMS has always been a center of trendsetting ideas. Built between 1905 and 1915, it was the original manufacturing facility and corporate headquarters for Munsingwear, Inc., a leading apparel manufacturer that revolutionized the garment industry by inventing the "itchless" union suit.

In 1985, the complex became International Market Square with 70-plus showrooms throughout the Design Center portion. The complex also includes design-related offices and a multi-story residential wing housing The Lofts at IMS.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, IMS is Minnesota's largest renovated building. Read about its fascinating past in the book at right, which chronicles the first 100 years, 1904 - 2004, in one of the world's most successful apparel manufacturing facilities. Available in paperback, $14.95, at Shel-Bea's Deli and General Store on IMS' first floor, Barnes & Noble stores or the Minnesota Historical Society Gift Shop.