Science and Technology | Page 20

Bruns and Finkle Grain Elevator, Moorhead

In 1878, businessmen Henry A. Bruns and Henry G. Finkle built the first steam-powered grain elevator in the Red River Valley. In its first harvest season, the elevator handled almost 250,000 bushels of wheat from more than 5,000 wagons.

Duluth Ship Canal Opening, 1871

The opening of the Duluth Ship Canal in 1871 was a historical turning point for the city of Duluth and the Twin Ports of Duluth and Superior.

Minnesota Brush Electric Company letterhead, 1887

Minnesota Brush Electric Company letterhead from 1887, showing the company's electric light mast and generating plant.

Light mast at Bridge Square, Minneapolis

Full view of the 257-foot electric light mast at Bridge Square, Minneapolis, c.1884.

De la Barre, William (1849–1936)

While working at Minneapolis's Washburn mills in the late 1870s, William de la Barre became an internationally known hydroelectricity expert and a key player in the development of water power at St. Anthony Falls.

Hot Ponds

The heated mill pond, or "hot pond," was invented around 1890. This innovation in Minnesota logging made it possible for logging companies to run their sawmills year-round.