When Leslie H. Fawkes arrived in Minneapolis in 1892, he found a city brimming with opportunity. The streets buzzed with horses, carriages, and streetcars, as Minneapolis transformed from a village of 2,000 in 1860 to a bustling metropolis of 170,000. Fresh out of business college in Los Angeles, Fawkes was drawn by the potential of the growing city, which was set to host the Republican Party's national convention that year.

In 1893, he opened the Great Western Cycle Company, selling Dayton and Orient bicycles, Spalding sporting goods, and Eastman Kodak cameras. His grand openings featured live orchestras and promotional bicycle races, establishing him as a prominent figure in the community. As the bicycle craze faded, Fawkes seized the emerging automotive trend, becoming the first automobile dealer in Minneapolis in 1901 with the Great Western Cycle and Automobile Company.

By 1911, Fawkes had expanded his operations, establishing a showroom at 1625 Hennepin Avenue, helping to create "automobile row." He diversified his ventures during the Roaring Twenties, even suing the federal government over tax disputes. However, the Great Depression hit in 1929, leading to significant financial losses that forced him to downsize.

In 1937, recognizing the rising interest in travel trailers, Fawkes founded the Travel Coach Company, becoming Minneapolis' first licensed trailer dealer. He showcased high-quality trailers during a time when mobility became essential.

Fawkes spent his later years enjoying retirement, golfing, and remaining active in the Minneapolis Athletic Club. He passed away in 1946 at 75, leaving behind a legacy that marked Minneapolis' transition from horse-drawn transport to a thriving automotive hub.