One Of The Deadliest Accidents In U.S. History Happened Right Here In Minnesota

For the most part, not a whole lot happens in Minnesota. Sure, we have crimes and other incidents. But few events ever draw national attention. However, Minnesota is the site of one of the deadliest accidents in U.S. history. It happened long ago, but it will not soon be forgotten.

By the time Minnesota officially became a state in 1858, it was already home to a thriving milling industry.

Both flour and lumber milling were profitable, with the state's busy rivers serving as the base of operations.

In Minneapolis, many flour mills sprouted up along the banks of the Mississippi River.

It was all the mills could do to keep up with demand. At one point, Minneapolis was known as the Flour Milling Capital of the World.

In 1874, the enormous Washburn A Mill was built along the river. Started by Cadwallader Washburn —

future founder of General Mills — it was one of the city's largest employers.

Four years after it was built, in 1878, the 200 employees were going about their business when disaster struck. As workers changed shifts, an enormous explosion rang out. Some say it could be heard 10 miles away in St. Paul.

Fourteen workers were killed in the initial explosion. And in the ensuing fire, four more were killed.

With about half of the city's flour supply gone, Cadwallader Washburn promised to rebuild. In time, he did. He implemented many new safety standards designed to prevent such a disaster from occurring again.

Today, you can still visit ruins of the mill at the Mill City Museum.

This disaster, which claimed 18 lives, is one of the deadliest in history. It will not soon be forgotten.

Did you know about the Washburn A Mill explosion? Have you visited its ruins at the Mill City Museum? Feel free to share your comments below.