With the Mississippi River running through it, Minneapolis was founded on the mills that sprouted up to take advantage of the river’s power. It all centered on Saint Anthony Falls, the largest waterfall on the Mississippi. By the late 1800s, dozens of businesses operated along the river, from lumber mills to paper mills to — perhaps the most famous — flour mills. In fact, Minneapolis was once the flour-milling capital of the entire world. Some of the most famous brands in the world, such as General Mills and Pillsbury, were founded in Minneapolis. Because of this long history, there are many interesting photos of Minneapolis during the heyday of milling. Here are 10 rare photos of Minneapolis that will show you its milling history like never before.
- This photo, dated around 1905, shows Pillsbury and Phoenix Mills with St. Anthony Falls in the foreground.
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- At one point, Minneapolis supplied almost 15 percent of the nation’s flour. Railroads began to crisscross the city to aid in shipping. This photo is from around 1939.
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- Washburn-Crosby — now General Mills — was one of the most successful companies in Minneapolis. They are the makers of the famed Gold Medal Flour, whose sign still lights Minneapolis to this day.
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- The Washburn A Mill explosion is one of the most famous events of Minneapolis’ milling history. This photo is an artist’s recreation of the 1878 explosion.
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- After the Washburn explosion, milling safety standards began to improve. Many were employed by the Minneapolis milling industry over the decades. This photo of mill workers dates back to around 1939.
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- This overhead view of the milling district in west Minneapolis is from around 1905. It shows just how much the city grew because of the industry.
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- This photo of Pillsbury employees dates back to around 1939. Pillsbury was founded in 1872 and was among the most innovative flour milling companies along the river.
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- But Washburn-Crosby and Pillsbury weren’t the only mills in Minneapolis. This photo of New Century Mill, built in 1905, shows the first steam-powered mill in the city.
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- This photo shows the inside of a Pillsbury mill around the year 1985.
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- Flour exports out of Minneapolis peaked at the turn of the century and tapered out after that. This photo from around 1939 shows a few mills left along the Minneapolis riverfront.
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What do you know about Minneapolis and its milling history? Have you ever visited Mill City Museum? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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