Historic Milling District
This aerial view shows the gatehouse, water power canal and adjacent mills as they appeared in 1945. They, together with similar structures on the east bank, made Minneapolis the milling capital of the nation from 1880-1930. Changes in marketing and technology led to its decline.
In the near future, the parkway and related park facilities will be developed in this area. The gatehouse will be uncovered, the canal reopened, and the mill ruins developed as an historic interpretive park. Plans are also being formulated for the private redevelopment of the mill buildings.
The concrete posts and pipe railings seen just east of this sign served as a protective barrier for the canal during its operation.
Marker can be reached from West River Parkway west of Portland Avenue South.
Courtesy hmdb.org
