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Posted in Minnesota History February 28, 2018 by Betsy Rathburn

These 11 Photos Of Minnesota From The Early 1900s Are Beyond Fascinating

Given our access to modern medicine and technology, most of us would rather stay put in the 21st century. But every once in a while, it’s nice to remember what it was like way back when the world was just a little slower. Luckily, there is plenty of photographic evidence to jog our memories. These photos of Minnesota from the early 1900s will take you back to a century ago.

1. Once called Lake Mendoza, then Lake Calhoun, and now Bde Maka Ska, one of the most popular lakes in Minneaolis was equally beautiful way back in 1908 when this photo was first published.

2. This photo shows construction along North Wabasha Street in St. Paul. It was taken in the mid-1950s.

3. This beautiful building is the Columbia Hotel in Ortonville, Minnesota. It was captured here all the way back in 1915. The building remained standing for over 100 years. Sadly, it was destroyed in a fire in 2012.

4. If it weren't for the old cars, you might not realize that this house and shop on State Street in St. Paul were photographed sometime in the 1920s.

5. This shot of the inside of a Duluth clothing store dates back to 1905.

6. The Iron Range was a busy place in the early 1900s. This photo dates back to the 1940s and was captured at Mahoning mine.

7. This photo of the Minneapolis City Hall dates back to 1900.

8. Hennepin Avenue was just as busy way back in the 1930s as it is today.

9. This shot of the Minneapolis post office dates back to 1908.

10. Rush City may be a small town, but it sure was busy in 1922.

11. Itasca State Park has always been beautiful, even back in its early days. This photo was taken in 1930!

What do you think? Where in Minnesota would you most like to see from the early 1900s? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.