description Washburn A Mill Overview
The Washburn A Mill was a flour mill complex in Minneapolis, Minnesota, built in 1874 by Cadwallader C. Washburn. The facility utilized St. Anthony Falls on the Mississippi River to power its operations and became the world's largest flour mill by the 1880s, capable of producing 2,000 barrels daily.
The original structure was destroyed in an 1878 flour dust explosion that killed 18 workers and led to important safety innovations in the milling industry. A rebuilt mill continued operations until 1965 and later became the Mill City Museum, operated by the Minnesota Historical Society to interpret the history of flour milling and Minneapolis's development.
help Washburn A Mill FAQ
When was the Washburn A Mill built and by whom?
The Washburn A Mill was built in 1874 by Cadwallader C. Washburn in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was constructed to harness the water power of St. Anthony Falls on the Mississippi River for flour production.
What happened to the original Washburn A Mill in 1878?
The original mill was destroyed by a devastating flour dust explosion in 1878 that killed 18 workers. The disaster was one of the most catastrophic industrial accidents in Minneapolis history and led to significant reforms in mill safety practices.
What is the Washburn A Mill site used for today?
The ruins of the Washburn A Mill complex now house the Mill City Museum, operated by the Minnesota Historical Society. The museum explores the history of Minneapolis flour milling and the role of St. Anthony Falls in shaping the city.
How did the Washburn A Mill become the world's largest flour mill?
After being rebuilt following the 1878 explosion, the facility was vastly expanded and by the 1880s became the world's largest flour mill. Its location at St. Anthony Falls provided the immense water power needed to drive the grinding machinery at an industrial scale.
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