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History + Education
Born on the banks of the Mississippi River, modern Minneapolis is the product of native ingenuity, immigrant innovation and the region's natural beauty.
Charting the Waters: 1680 - 1850
The Sioux and Ojibwe people have long called this land home. Father Louis Hennepin christened scenic St. Anthony Falls in the 1680s, marking the site of the nascent city. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and the construction of Ft. Snelling in the 1820s drew more Europeans to this pristine region for trading, trapping and settlement.
Flour Power: 1850 - 1930
St. Anthony Falls fueled the city's lucrative flour milling industry. Minneapolis quickly became the milling capital of the world, establishing modern corporate giants such as Cargill, General Mills and Pillsbury. Tourists and artists flocked to the only waterfall on the Mississippi and the Stone Arch Bridge. The landmark bridge was constructed in 1883 and continues to attract sight-seers today.
Coming of Age: 1930s - Present
A progressive city claiming many commercial, political, medical and cultural firsts, Minneapolis continues to make history. With 19 Fortune 500 companies, including General Mills, Target and 3M, Minnesota's business community continues to thrive. Minneapolis now hosts one of the largest Hmong and Somali populations in the country along with other diverse groups. A commitment to education, including 4 public and 8 private colleges and universities, contribute to the city's highly educated workforce and innovative culture.
- See a list of things to do.
we-recommend
Segway Magical History Tour
Glide along effortlessly on this kid-friendly tour of the Riverfront District. A 2-wheeled segway lets you explore 7 miles without breaking a sweat.
St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail
1.8 mile interpretive loop crosses the Stone Arch Bridge and includes a series of self-guided historical markers.
Mill City Museum
Talk about kid-friendly fun: an interactive water area, Flour Tour, baking lab and the film "Minneapolis in 19 minutes".
Minnesota History Center
Discover weather, old worlds and more at the Minnesota History Center, a museum with style, rotating exhibits and exceptional library and archives.
Discover More
- Learn about famous Minnesotans
- Find out what happened this day in Minnesota history
- Discover more Minneapolis history
