Saint Anthony Falls

Saint Anthony Falls, located at the northeastern edge of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a marvel of natural beauty and historical significance. As the only natural major waterfall on the Mississippi River, it has played a pivotal role in the development and growth of the city. Today, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and industrious spirit that shaped Minneapolis, offering visitors a blend of scenic splendor and rich history.

The History of Saint Anthony Falls

The history of Saint Anthony Falls is deeply intertwined with the cultural and spiritual lives of the native tribes who lived in the area. The Mdewakanton Dakota people, for whom the falls held sacred significance, referred to the Mississippi River as hahawakpa, meaning river of the falls. The falls themselves were known by various names, including mnirara (curling waters), owahmenah (falling waters), and owamni (whirlpool). According to Dakota legends, the falls were home to Oanktehi, the god of waters and evil, who resided beneath the cascading waters.

European exploration of the falls began in 1680 when Father Louis Hennepin, a Catholic friar, named them the Falls of Saint Anthony after his patron saint, Anthony of Padua. Hennepin's description of the falls helped bring them to the attention of the Western world, and subsequent explorers, including Zebulon Pike and Jonathan Carver, documented their own encounters with the falls. Carver's journey in 1766 was particularly significant as it laid the groundwork for future explorations, including the famous Lewis and Clark expedition.

Industrialization and Development

The industrialization of Saint Anthony Falls began in earnest in the mid-1800s. The falls' immense power made them an ideal location for milling operations, and entrepreneurs quickly recognized their potential. Franklin Steele made the first private land claim at the falls in 1838, and by 1848, he had constructed a dam on the east side of the river to harness the falls' energy for a sawmill. This marked the beginning of a booming milling industry that would come to define Minneapolis.

The towns of St. Anthony and Minneapolis, situated on the east and west sides of the falls respectively, merged in 1872 to fully capitalize on the falls' power. From 1880 to about 1930, Minneapolis earned the title of the Flour Milling Capital of the World, thanks to the innovative milling techniques developed at the falls. These included the middlings purifier and gradual-reduction grinding, which revolutionized the production of high-quality flour.

Modern-Day Saint Anthony Falls

Today, Saint Anthony Falls is a blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks. The falls are defined by a spillway, upper dam, and a series of locks constructed in the 1950s and 1960s as part of the Upper Mississippi River 9-Foot Navigation Project. These locks extend navigation to points upstream and are located just downstream of the 3rd Avenue Bridge and upstream of the I-35W Saint Anthony Falls Bridge.

The area around the falls is designated as the St. Anthony Falls Historic District, offering a 1.8-mile self-guided walking trail with informative signs detailing the area's past. Visitors can explore the remnants of the once-thriving milling industry, including the ruins of old mills and other industrial structures that have been preserved as part of the district's historical heritage.

Exploring the Falls

A visit to Saint Anthony Falls is a journey through time. Start your exploration at the Stone Arch Bridge, a former railroad bridge that now serves as a pedestrian and bicycle path. The bridge offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for photography and sightseeing.

Next, head to the Mill City Museum, located in the ruins of what was once the world's largest flour mill. The museum provides an immersive experience, with exhibits that detail the history of the milling industry and its impact on Minneapolis. Don't miss the Flour Tower, an eight-story elevator ride that takes you through the mill's history with interactive displays and multimedia presentations.

For a closer look at the falls, visit the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam. While the lock is no longer in operation, it offers a unique perspective on the engineering feats that helped shape the falls. The visitor center provides educational exhibits on the history and mechanics of the locks, as well as the ecological significance of the Mississippi River.

Nature and Recreation

Saint Anthony Falls is not just a historical landmark; it's also a hub for outdoor recreation. The surrounding area features numerous parks and trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, a 72-mile-long park that runs through the heart of the Twin Cities, offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and boating.

For a more leisurely experience, take a stroll along the West River Parkway, which runs parallel to the Mississippi River. The parkway offers scenic views of the falls and the downtown skyline, with plenty of benches and green spaces to relax and enjoy the surroundings. In the warmer months, the parkway is a popular spot for festivals, concerts, and other community events.

Conclusion

Saint Anthony Falls is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty with a rich tapestry of history and culture. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to unwind, the falls offer something for everyone. As you explore this iconic landmark, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the forces that shaped Minneapolis and the enduring legacy of the falls. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the magic of Saint Anthony Falls!