These 12 Photos of Minnesota In The 1970s Are Mesmerizing

As always, we dug up some photos from Minnesota's past that are simply too fun to pass up. In these snapshots from the 1970s, everything in MN is looking very familiar. The tall skyscrapers are beginning to emerge in Minneapolis, and all the traditions we know and love are going strong throughout the state. So enjoy the brief window to the past, and spend some time reflecting on the positive memories you have from that decade.

1. Here is a look at downtown Minneapolis in '72 after the building of the IDS Center. It was slightly shorter than it is today in this photo at 775 ft.

2. It absolutely dwarfs Foshay Tower which was once the tallest building.

3. 4th of July is one of the holidays that MN always does well! Here the crowd is waiting for night to fall and the fireworks to begin!

4. Another great 4th of July moment was captured in Sleepy Eye.

5. This is the interior of the 3M plant in the mid 70s with an employee monitoring a machine. Do you know somebody who worked in this plant or did you work in it yourself?

6. This group is lunching on Nicollet mall in downtown Minneapolis. It has always been a popular hangout for those who live and work in the area.

7. In 1972, this shot was captured of St. Paul from a sightseeing boat on the river!

Date: 25 July 1972

8. Instead of taking the sightseeing boat, these two were paddling down the Mississippi themselves. Who has paddled in more than one area of the Mississippi?

9. In New Ulm, adults are looking at the bargain merchandise set out for this massive sale.

10. In front of Powers Dry Goods Store this man is taking a quiet break.

11. This is another amazing spot on the Mississippi near Nicollet Island.

12. Here is a look at downtown Minneapolis' "Block E" in '73. It was demolished in the 80s.

Do you like seeing this photos of MN's past? Let us know and share your 1970s photos of Minnesota with us on the Only In Minnesota Facebook Page!