Letter dated January 18, 1929 from J. L. Watson, Right of Way Commissioner, Northern Pacific Railway Company to Frank T. Wilson, Stillwater regarding the dangerous proposed crossing at Mulberry Street and suggesting Chestnut Street as a safer alternative.
Letter dated February 6, 1930 from N. O. Varnum, City Attorney of Hudson, Wisconsin to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington acknowledging receipt of the deeds for the Stillwater park property.
This carbon copy of a Claude Turner document is an historical overview about the bridge re-design. It includes discussion of contracts, alternate design, and petitions. Also includes exhibits A, B, and C from interested parties communicating with the Duluth City Council.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
This is a general elevation drawing, plus end view of both towers. The suspended car transfer is in the center of the bridge drawing over the canal. Dimensions are included for the distance from the water to the bottom of the bridge span (135 feet) and the footings. The drawing shows small stone and gravel fill near and around the concrete footings at the base of each tower. The finials are shown in detail. Lake Avenue is shown from one tower to the other. Drawing H-5421A, U.S. Patent February 1903.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
There are three drawn details: end view, part side elevation, lateral bracing in horizontal plane. The towers are the two end parts of the bridge that hold the central span and the suspended car. The towers are referred to as North and South. The South Tower is nearer to Minnesota Point, the North Tower is on the "mainland." Drawing 167, Sheet M11.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Detailed drawing of the suspended car, or gondola, and the vertical structure that holds it. This is the element that moves from one side of the bridge to the other above the canal. This transfer car could hold vehicles and people. Normal speed of the car was 4 miles per hour; it made the trip in about 1 minute. This drawing includes dimensions of individual structural elements such as braces. Drawing 160, Sheet M4. Turner is identified as engineer, 816 Phoenix Building Duluth.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Technical details and named parts of the suspended car and its supporting structure for the bridge's builders. Included on the drawing are dimensions, rivet poles, braces, center lines, bolt connections, plates, trusses, knee brace, hanger roll. Drawing 161, Sheet M5.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Two detailed drawings of the car, or gondola, which carried vehicles and people across the canal. The drawing shows etched glass, punctured decorative steel plates, electric light fixtures, seats with perforated wood bottoms, maple flooring, glass paneled doors, lattice rail, copper flashing, wire supports, wire ropes, dimensions, floor beams, pine planks, and oak flooring. Drawing 162 Sheet M6.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
A side elevation of the car, or gondola, which carried vehicles and people across the canal. The drawing shows: decorative circular metal plate with the word Duluth and floral-like details, wooden wall with windows, open lattice feature. Plan of strut is drawn as a detail for the bridge builders. Drawing 163, Sheet M7.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The Claude Turner design for the original Aerial Bridge from 1901. Many companies and designers vied for this project. The bridge was built in 1904-1905. This drawing shows the spires and steel structural detail as well as the concrete footings and dimensions. Both towers are shown with an end view. In 1929 the suspended car transfer was eliminated and a lift span was installed.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Letter dated January 5, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commissioner to Stillwater City AttorneyEdwin D. Buffington regarding St. Croix County's as opposed to the sate of Wisconsin's responsibility for maintaining a new bridge.
Letter dated February 28, 1925 from M. W. Torkelsom, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding report of the conference on interstate bridges on the legislation in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Letter dated July 15, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin J. Buffington clarifying the bridge legislation and reporting a copy would be sent as soon as it was available.
Letter dated May 21, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington reporting the proposed legislation recommended by the Wisconsin Highway Department had passed.
Letter dated January 12, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commission to City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding financing the bridge as a Federal Aid Project or ina another manner that is fair and equitable to both states (Minnesota and Wisconsin).
Letter dated August 6, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington assuring him that the legislation would be mailed as soon as it had been published and clarified that Minnesota would remain in control of the portion of the bridge which was within the Wisconsin boundary.
Letter dated January 21, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Comission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding bill to construct, re-construct, repair, maintain and operate inter-state bridges and question regarding purchase of existing toll bridges.
Letter dated January 27, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding resolution to be introduced to Wisconsin Senate and Assembly regarding the construction, re-construction, repair, maintenance and operation of inter-state bridges.
Letter dated February 17, 1925 from M. W. Torkelson, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding pending Wisconsin legislation pertaining to the interstate bridge.
The Hugh C. Leighton Co., Manufacturers, Portland, ME.
Date Created:
1910?
Description:
During storms water from waves collect in the piers which are designed with drainage gaps so the water runs back into the canal. Here, there is melted snow and a small pack of snow at the base of the pier's walkway that blocks the drainage.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Letter dated January 8, 1925 from MN State Senator George M. Sullivan to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington announcing his intention to introduce a joint resolution between Minnesota, North and South Dakota and Wisconsin on the subject of interstate bridges.
Letter dated January 15, 1925 from Hon. George Sullivan to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding his intention to draft a bill for the state of Wisconsin pertaining to the interstate bridge.
Letter dated January 20, 1925 from Hon. George Sullivan to City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington enclosing his draft of a bill for the state of Wisconsin regarding the interstate bridge.
Letter dated January 23, 1925 from Hon. George Sullivan to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding letters sent to Wisconsin regarding inter-state bridge.
Draft of a bill dated January 20, 1925 authorizing the Wisconsin State Highway Commission to construct, re-construct, repair, maintain and operate inter-state bridge.
Panoramic view of the Stillwater Lift Bridge and downtown in Stillwater Minnesota. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin. It first opened to traffic in 1931.
Flooding up to the deck of the Stillwater Lift Bridge in Stillwater, Minnesota. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin. It first opened to traffic in 1931.
Flooding up to the Stillwater Lift Bridge and the Lowell Park gazebo in Stillwater, Minnesota. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin. It first opened to traffic in 1931.
View of the Lift Bridge in Stillwater, Minnesota. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin. It first opened to traffic in 1931.
The fountain in Lowell Park near the Stillwater Lift Bridge in Stillwater, Minnesota. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin. It first opened to traffic in 1931.
Birdseye view of the Stillwater Lift Bridge and the Commander Building in Stillwater, Minnesota. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin. It first opened to traffic in 1931.
The original Cedar Avenue Bridge, Eagan Minnesota was constructed in 1890 and connected Dakota and Hennepin Counties over the Minnesota River. The Dakota County portion of the bridge was removed upon the completion of the new bridge in 1980.
The original Cedar Avenue Bridge, Eagan Minnesota was constructed in 1890 and connected Dakota and Hennepin Counties over the Minnesota River. The Dakota County portion of the bridge was removed upon the completion of the new bridge in 1980.
The Cedar Avenue Bridge, Eagan Minnesota was constructed in 1890 and connected Dakota and Hennepin Counties over the Minnesota River. The Dakota County portion of the bridge was removed upon the completion of the new bridge in 1980. Del Stelling worked as a newspaper reporter and photographer, covering Savage, Burnsville, Eagan and other areas of Dakota County, Minnesota from 1959 - 1984.
The new Cedar Avenue Bridge Eagan, Minnesota was constructed in 1980 and replaced the 1890 bridge connecting Dakota and Hennepin County between Eagan and Bloomington.
An aerial view (for a 1961 Photo Contest) of the Duluth-Superior port and the incomplete high bridge, a tied-arch suspension span, whose construction began November 28, 1958 and was dedicated December 2, 1971.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Letter dated March 30, 1928 from Senator Henrik Shipstead to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington regarding an opinion from the Bureau of Public Roads pertaining to a request for federal aid for the interstate bridge.
Letter dated May 11, 1928 from Senator Henrick Shipstead to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington indicating he would take up the federal aid proposal during the next session of Congress.
Letter dated April 6, 1928 from Senator Henrick Shipstead to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington offering his continued assistance regarding the interstate bridge.
Congressional Act H. R. 13502, dated January 8, 1929 authorizing the State of Minnesota and the State of Wisconsin to construct, maintain and operate a free highway bridge across the Saint Croix river at or near Stillwater, Minnesota.
Joint Resolution State of Minnesota S. F. 12 Relating to Interstate Bridges, introduced by Senator Sullivan on January 8, 1925 and passed on January 25, 1925 details the financial commitment of both states in the construction, repair and maintenance of interstate bridges.
Letter dated January 17, 1887 and envelope from Senator Dwight M. Sabin to Stillwater City Engineer Lewis W. Clarke assuring full support of the bridge project.
Looking down Fourth Avenue West from Fourth Street in downtown Duluth. The 16-story Alworth building constructed in a record nine months in 1909-1910 is the tall building at the left. It is at 306 West Superior Street. The 1932 built Medical Arts building is in the middle of the photograph at 324 West Superior Street.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Looking north from the Minnesota Point beach. The neighborhood of Minnesota Point is called Park Point. The park at the end of the point is also called Park Point. The building to the right of the black and white lighthouse is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Building. built in 1906. The Marine Museum will be joined to it in 1973. The 67-foot tall lighthouse in front of the Aerial Lift Bridge is formally called South Breakwater Inner Light Tower. Owned by the federal government and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, the tower's light was first lit in 1901. It was bought in December 2008 by Steve Sola and Matt Kampf of Duluth. The winning bid was more than $31,000. Mr. Sola grew up on Park Point, Kamps in Hibbing, but lived many years on Cape Cod before moving to Duluth. They cannot move the tower.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Letter dated March 27, 1925 from W. F. Rosenwald, Minnesota Highway Department Maintenance Engineer toStillwater Mayor R. J. Coffeen including Order No. 4476 to extend temporary location of Trunk Highway No. 45 along the inter-state bridge to the Wisconsin state line.
D-5 The caption of this post card says One of the nation's top attractions is Duluth's famous aerial bridge which must be raised for each approaching steamer into the harbor, and stretches the mainland of Duluth to the Minnesota Point which juts out into Lake Superior for nine miles. This card was mailed in August of 1958, but these streetlights on the piers were replaced about 1955. Minnesota Point, or Park Point, is a long, narrow peninsula that extends out from the Canal Park area of Duluth separating Lake Superior from Superior Bay. Minnesota Point is approximately 7 miles in length, and when included with Wisconsin Point, which extends 3 miles out from Superior, Wisconsin, is reported to be the largest freshwater sandbar in the world at a total of 10 miles. Due to the short and easy portage across Minnesota Point, the Ojibwe name for the City of Duluth is Onigamiinsing ("at the little portage"). Since the digging of an artificial canal in 1870-1871 Minnesota Point is technically an island, connected to the rest of the city of Duluth since 1905 by the Aerial Bridge, since 1930 by the Aerial Lift Bridge. At the end of Minnesota Point is a small airport, Sky Harbor.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
This view is from what is today the Corner of the Lake, but was the vicinity of Michigan Street and South Second Avenue East. It is now at the Lake Walk. The railroad tracks are gone. The wooden building is the edge of the Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad freight depot buildings. The concrete structure in the water is the remnant of the Whitney Brothers rock crushing company. Canal Park area was an industrial location until it began a slow transformation in the 1970s to the tourist destination familiar today.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
A winter view of the Duluth Harbor, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and Lake Superior from 1015 East Eleventh Street, the site of Peace Church. The church has evolved through three names. In 1872, the German congregation chose the name St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church. The first church built that same year at Tenth Avenue East and Third Street still stands as an apartment building, and is the oldest church building in Duluth. In 1934 they changed the church name to St. Paul's Evangelical and Reformed. in 1957 it was given the name St. Paul's United Church of Christ. In 1959, the congregation broke ground for the new church at the present site and changed the name to Peace Church.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
You can walk down to the Lake at Leif Erikson Park near downtown Duluth. There are large rocks to sit or stand upon and a rocky shoreline. At all seasons, individuals, families, people and their dogs, spend hours at this spot watching the Lake, wading, watching for boats to enter the harbor, watching for loons on the water. On the right of this shot is the bluestone retaining wall below the Fitger's Brewery whose smokestack and water tower are prominent. Fitger's at 600 East Superior Street closed in 1971, but was remodeled and reopened in 1984 as a 48-room inn, with shops and restaurants.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Looking toward Canal Park from East Second Street, Calvary Temple Church is at the center right with a white cross. The church address is 412 East First Street. Next door to Calvary is Curran Apartment building with three front stoops at 408 and 410 East First Street. The very top of Hotel Duluth at far right top. This residential area was absorbed by Miller-Dwan Hospital and its parking facilities.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The 1893 First Methodist Episcopal church occupied the corner of Third Avenue West and Third Street in downtown Duluth until the congregation built the 1965 church building designed by architect Pietro Belluschi that everyone calls the Copper Top church at Skyline and Central Entrance. This brownstone structure closed in November 1966 and was razed in 1969.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
These railroad tracks are parallel to Lake Superior which is not visible at the far right. Superior Street is at the far left with an edge of the brick Minnesota Power electric company's substation building showing at Fifteenth Avenue West. Superwood Corporation hardboard manufacturers is at the right and appears to be in front of the Huron Portland Cement silos. Garfield is at about Sixteenth Avenue West behind you at you look at this shot. Superwood is at Fourteenth Avenue West and Waterfront and the Huron Portland cement silo at Ninth Avenue West and waterfront.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
A view from an upper window of the Duluth Malt and Brewing Company at Twenty Ninth Avenue West between Huron and Railroad streets. These Lincoln Park houses will be lost during interstate construction.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The Interstate Bridge between Duluth and Superior, originally called the "Duluth-Superior Bridge", was owned by the Great Northern railroad but never used by them. It was used by the Soo Line from 1909 until its closure in December 1961 when the new High Bridge opened. Built in 1897 by the Duluth-Superior Bridge Company, it carried two railway tracks as well as two tracks for streetcars. The center draw span, the largest of its kind when built, was 485-feet in length. Small tugs and ferries could pass underneath, and the outer spans were designed for passage of log rafts to upriver mills. The center span and its granite support pier were pulled out in 1972. The lake vessel Henry Phipps is in the foreground. The 601-foot steam ship was built in 1907, and could carry 12,000 tons of iron ore. The Henry Phipps was sold for scrap in 1976 and scrapped in Duluth in 1978.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The Arlantic Hope is a Liberian bulk carrier built in 1965. She is next to the General Mills grain elevator purchased in 1943 from Consolidated Elevator, Company, in the Duluth harbor. James Ford Bell led the formation of General Mills, Inc., consolidating Washburn Crosby and several other regional milling companies to create what would become the largest flour miller in the world. Among the mills consolidated were the Red Star Milling Company of Kansas, the Royal Milling Company of Montana, Kalispell Flour Mills Company and the Rocky Mountain Elevator Company. Other mills joined the new company early in 1929, including the Sperry Flour Company of California, the Kell Group in the Southwest, the El Reno mill of Oklahoma, and the Larrowe Milling Company of Michigan, which allowed entry into the feed business. And General Mills was born.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Hillside housing stock built with a rock outcrop in the backyard; A Master Bread billboard is at the top of the image. The Zinsmaster family opened a bakery called Zinsmaster Hol-Ry Company in Duluth in 1931. Master Bread was one of their brands. The structure that looks like it is framed by the Aerial Lift Bridge is the Huron Portland Cement silo that later became LaFarge Cement. It still stands on the Duluth waterfront. The white trimmed brick structure at the top right is 1515 West Superior Street, the Duluth Gospel Tabernacle building. The building to the right but further east on Superior Street with the arched window is a Minnesota Power station and garage at about Fourteenth Avenue West and Superior Street.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Speech given on March 23, 1928 by N. O. Varnum of Hudson, Wisconsin, chairman of the Highway Committee of the County Board of St. Croix County to citizens of St. Joseph Township, Wisconsin regarding the interstate bridge.
View in winter of the Canal Park area at the base of the bridge with the Blatnik or High Bridge in the distance. The Canal Park Marine Museum and Visitor Center is joined to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Building. Both are visible just in front of the lift span in the middle of the photograph. There was a grand opening for the Museum on September 29, 1973. The brown, tall building at the right is the Paulucci building which is the common name for the Stone-Ordean-Wells building. It was built at 525 Lake Avenue south in 1915. The architect of the project was Frederick George German.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View in spring of the Aerial Bridge with the grain elevators and other harbor industrial and shipping facilities on Rice's Point. Cargill elevators B2 (far left) and B1 (built 1976) are the white structures at the top left. They are reached off of Garfield Avenue unless you approach by water. The Canal Park Marine Museum sits at the foot of the bridge's north tower. There was a ground breaking Sept 12, 1972 for the museum. It cost $283,000. The dedication was September 29, 1973. Mr. C. Patrick Labadie, native of Detroit, was hired as director in August, 1973. In 1973, it cost $40,000 annually to operate the museum. Entry had always been free to the public. The museum expansion dedication was July 5, 1979. The brown building at the right middle of the photograph is the Paulucci building, the common name for the Stone-Ordean-Wells building. It was built here, at 525 Lake Avenue South, in 1915. The architect of the project was Frederick George German.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View of the Duluth harbor from just east and behind Hotel Duluth in downtown. You are looking across Superior Street down Lake Avenue. You move along Lake Avenue to approach and cross the bridge. Hotel Duluth is at the far right of the photograph. The lift span is down. Grandma's Restaurant (opened in 1976) is at the base of the north tower of the bridge and the Corps of Engineers Building is to the left of the restaurant. The blue building, a flag is to its left, and the facility stretching out from it is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers vessel yard at 903 Minnesota Avenue. It is on the bayside of the Point after you cross the bridge. There is a Burger King, red, sign visible at the left in front of the Corps administrative building. You can clearly see the bridge was painted silver. In September 1970, the entire structure was scraped, primed and repainted in silver, rather than its former green color. It has been silver ever since.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View of the Blatnik or High Bridge within the frame of the Aerial Bridge with the lift span raised. Canal Park in the foreground is without today's familiar tourist amenities of restaurants, shops and hotels. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Building is in the center of this photograph. It was built in 1906. The bridge is owned and operated by the City of Duluth on permit authorized by Congress. The Ship Canal and grounds are under the authority of the Lake Superior Area Office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Aerial Lift Bridge was entered in the National Register of Historic Places on May 22, 1973. The black and white lighthouse-type structure is to the left of the bridge's south tower. The formal name is South Breakwater Inner Light Tower and it is owned by the federal government. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The tower is 67 feet tall and its light was first lit in 1901. The tower was not used for navigation for years, and was offered for sale by the government - with restrictions. The tower was bought in December 2008 by Steve Sola and Matt Kampf of Duluth. The winning bid was more than $31,000. Mr. Sola grew up on Park Point, Mr. Kamps in Hibbing, but he lived many years on Cape Cod before moving to Duluth. The tower must remain where it is. The brown, tall building at the right is the Paulucci building, the common name for the Stone-Ordean-Wells building. It was built at 525 Lake Avenue south in 1915. The architect of the project was Frederick George German.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View from the harbor looking toward the Lake with everything in silhouette. The South Breakwater Inner Light Tower is lit. Houses on Minnesota Point are visible at the far right on Minnesota Avenue. The two flags are above the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Building (built 1906). To the left is the Paulucci building at 525 South Lake Avenue.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View from a distance up the shore, probably from Leif Erikson park. Harbor facilities are in the distance at both the left and the right. Canal Park is at the right, and Minnesota Point is to the left. The very bright white structures are grain elevators. The Lake can be glassy calm, but it can alter very rapidly.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View from out in the Lake beyond the canal toward the canal's piers, lighthouses or light structures. There are small pleasure craft in Lake Superior. The South Pier is at the left, the North Pier is at the right. People are watching from the piers. The Paulucci building is at the right in the background. This may or may not be a foggy moment. Duluth can get foggy is a few minutes. It is one of the many Lake effects. We can also experience a 10, 20, even 30 degree temperature swing if you are down by the Lake or up over the hill.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View of the harbor looking at the back of the Paulucci building. The Paulucci building is the common name for the Stone-Ordean-Wells building. It was built at 525 Lake Avenue south in 1915. Stone-Ordean-Wells Company was a wholesale grocery firm. Their in-house, monthly magazine, begun in 1910, was titled Ginger. Nokomis, Hiawatha, and Blue Bird were brands sold by Stone-Ordean-Wells. The architect of the project was Frederick George German. Jeno Paulucci first occupied the building in 1961. Prior to that date there was a series of occupants. Two of the Great Lakes Towing Company tugboats are at the ready because the lift span is fully up which means a vessel must be approaching. The 1901 Canal Park lighthouse is visible between the bows of the tugs. The 107-year-old lighthouse was offered for sale in August 2008 by the federal government with limitations. The formal name for this light structure is South Breakwater Inner Light Tower. It is owned by the federal government and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 67 feet tall tower's light was first turned on in 1901. It was bought in December 2008 by Steve Sola and Matt Kampf of Duluth. Their winning bid was $31,000. Mr. Sola grew up on Park Point, Kamps in Hibbing, but lived many years on Cape Cod before moving to Duluth. The light tower cannot be moved.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The Bergetta Moe Bakery, 716 East Superior Street, built about 1875, has evolved over the years. Here it has green striped awnings and is the Superior Lake Gifts shop. Earlier, from about 1970 to 1989, this building held the contemporary design store called the October House. In the lower level was Martin Gould's, the owner's, architectural office. Joyce and Martin Gould also owned the brick and stone building next door. Gould made the lower level into a tiny apartment. The frame building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in June 1976. In about 1989 Martin and Joyce Gould sold both buildings to Mark Marino. Mr. Marino added to the frame building. The Portland Malt Shoppe sells ice cream seasonally. The Malt Shoppe building was built In 1921 as a gas station for Northwestern Oil Company owned by Harry and Edith Rogers. The Rogers managed the gas station for many years. Martin and Joyce Gould, owners of the October House, had a retail dress shop featuring Finnish Marimekko garments in the building. They named their store Portland Village. Portland comes from the plat name of the neighborhood. The Goulds sold the building in 1989, and it became the Portland Malt Shoppe. These buildings are a few steps East of the Fitger's complex, a brewery turned "mall,"and a destination for residents and tourists especially in the summer. The Lakewalk is behind and below these buildings. At the middle right of the photograph are buildings at Canal Park. The Interstate or Blatnik or High Bridge is in the distance. One bridge, many descriptive names. It links Duluth and Superior, Wisconsin, thus, interstate.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View of the St. Clair, 770-foot vessel, passing under the bridge's lift span into the harbor. To handle Great Lakes cargo, a special type of vessel has evolved, the North American "laker," the largest being 1,013 feet long, capable of carrying up to 70,000 tons of iron ore or 1,700,00 bushels of grain in one trip. On any given day during the sailing season, the vessels of the U.S. and Canadian fleets are in continuous motion carrying a wide range of cargos. Thanks to a career spent primarily in freshwater, the average life expectancy of a laker is 40-50 years, compared to about half that for saltwater vessels. Downtime during winter lay-up allows ample opportunity for maintenance, another key factor in a laker's long lifespan and enviable safety record.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View of the rising sea smoke at sunrise. Sea smoke is a cloud over the sea, which could otherwise be called fog, and is usually formed when very cold air moves over warmer water. We see this phenomena all the time when watching Lake Superior. Photographers capture it with delight. The brown building at the right is the Paulucci building which is the common name for the Stone-Ordean-Wells building. It was built at 525 Lake Avenue south in 1915. The architect of the project was Frederick George German. The Blatnik or High Bridge is in the distance behind the aerial bridge. Duluth-Superior High Bridge or Blatnik High Bridge or Interstate Bridge. Efforts to secure a toll-free bridge between Duluth and Superior started as early as the 1930s. Other unsuccessful attempts were made in 1940 and 1948. In 1953, approval was given for a new toll bridge, pressure from both cities demanded a toll-free unit. When Congress adopted a new system of interstate and defense highways, the bridge became part of that system and was eligible for 90% federal financing - elevating the need for having it be a toll bridge. In 1956 construction plans were delayed by disagreement over clearance height. It had been set at 100 ft. but, after much debate, increased to 120. Construction started Nov. 28, 1958, on what was the largest single highway project ever undertaken jointly by Minnesota and Wisconsin. About 1.6 million hours were worked by construction employees and 100,000 by engineering and inspection personnel. Three workmen lost their lives in the three years of construction. The bridge was formally dedicated on Saturday, Dec. 2, 1961. Mayor Lawrence Hagen of Superior, E. Clifford Mork, Duluth Mayor. It was formally named to honor John A. Blatnik Sept. 24, 1971.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
View of the rising sea smoke at sunrise. Sea smoke is a cloud over the sea, which could otherwise be called fog, and is usually formed when very cold air moves over warmer water. We see this phenomena all the time when watching Lake Superior. Photographers capture it with delight. The Blatnik or High Bridge is in the distance behind the Aerial Bridge. It is also known as the Duluth-Superior High Bridge or Blatnik High Bridge or Interstate Bridge. Efforts to secure a toll-free bridge between Duluth and Superior started as early as the 1930s. Other unsuccessful attempts were made in 1940 and 1948. In 1953, approval was given for a new toll bridge, pressure from both cities demanded a toll-free unit. When Congress adopted a new system of interstate and defense highways, the bridge became part of that system and was eligible for 90% federal financing - elevating the need for having it be a toll bridge. In 1956 construction plans were delayed by disagreement over clearance height. It had been set at 100 ft. but, after much debate, increased to 120. Construction started Nov. 28, 1958, on what was the largest single highway project ever undertaken jointly by Minnesota and Wisconsin. About 1.6 million hours were worked by construction employees and 100,000 by engineering and inspection personnel. Three workmen lost their lives in the three years of construction. The bridge was formally dedicated on Saturday, Dec. 2, 1961. Mayor Lawrence Hagen of Superior, E. Clifford Mork, Duluth Mayor. It was formally named to honor John A. Blatnik Sept. 24, 1971. To the right is a hotel called Comfort Suites at 408 Canal Park Drive. Street names were changed. South First Avenue East became Canal Park Drive. Harbor Drive was South Fifth Ave West. The first section, a half-mile, of the Downtown Lakewalk was completed in 1988 from the ship canal to the corner of the lake. By 1994 it extended four miles east.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Letter dated July 16, 1925 from Thomas Mohn, City Attorney of Red Wing, MN to Stillwater City Attorney Buffington asking for a copy of the resolution dated October 2, 1924 giving the State of Minnesota the control of the bridge.
Letter dated October 23, 1924 from Minnesota Highway Department to J. T. Donaghey, Acting Highway Commissioner, Wisconsin Highway Commission advising the Wisconsin Highway Department to take over that portion of the bridge located in Wisconsin.
Letter dated January 20, 1911 from E. J. Miller, Minnesota Highway Department to Stillwater City Engineer J. Abercrombie regarding the life expectancy, suggested method of repars and posted speed and wieght limits of the existing Stillwater pontoon bridge
This is the lower side of Superior street between Third Avenue West on the left and approaching Fourth Avenue West on the right. The buildings left to right are Lonsdale at 300, Alworth at 306-308, Siewart's 310, Irving Moore Memorial 312, Torrey 314-316, St. Louis Hotel 318. If we could see a little further toward Fourth the Providence building would be near the corner. The St. Louis hotel was razed and the Medical Arts building constructed in its place in 1932.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Marine Iron and Shipbuilding Company launches including one named Prairie State. During WWII, the company installed the piping in 30 vessels built by Zenith Dredge company of Duluth. A tugboat (tug) is a boat that maneuvers vessels by pushing or towing them. Tugs move vessels that either should not move themselves, such as ships in a crowded harbor or a narrow canal, or those that cannot move themselves alone, such as barges or disabled ships. The company was located at Eleventh Avenue West and bayfront. The company became Modern Constructors, Marine Iron and Shipbuilding in 1954. Today, Marine Iron and Shipbuilding is at 325 South Lake Avenue and Waterfront Plaza Building. Above the tug on the left, just above the tug's name, is the two story brick Webster elementary school at 433 South First Avenue East in Canal Park. It was built in 1897 and razed in 1930. It was named for Daniel Webster who, as Secretary of State, negotiated the Webster-Ashburton Treaty that established the definitive eastern border between the United States and Canada.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The Chicago Shipbuilding Company of Chicago, a subsidiary of the American Shipbuilding Company, built the steamer William E. Cory for the Pittsburgh Steamship Company in 1904. The vessel dimensions are 569' X 56' X 31'. She sailed from Chicago on her maiden voyage August 12, 1905 bound for Duluth to load iron ore. The aerial bridge was new. Bids were opened March 25, 1901, but only one was received. The Duluth Canal Bridge Company was awarded the contract but abandoned the work. In February 1904, the Modern Steel Structural Company of Waukesha, Wisconsin was issued a contract. Work began July 20, 1904. On February 23, 1905, with local dignitaries at hand, the bridge was first operated. Regular service began the next day according to newspaper accounts. The city engineer's report for 1905 stated that the bridge was "completed and commenced operation on May 5, 1905, and a few problems were corrected in running the bridge over the next few days." The Aerial bridge was completed in February 1905. The aerial bridge transporter or gondola or transfer car roadway was 17 feet by 50 feet with sidewalks seven feet by 50 feet, the cabins were 30 feet long. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office building with flag above it was built in 1906. Also visible in the image are the National Biscuit Company 517 Lake Avenue South, Blanchet Hotel 520 Lake Avenue South, and Wieland Flats 502-512 St. Croix Avenue
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Every student in Duluth learned about the aerial bridge from family or teachers. This table-top model in clay is typical in demonstrating how central to children and families the structure and impact of the bridge was and is to residents of Duluth.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Every student in Duluth learned about the Aerial Bridge from family or teachers. This table-top model in clay is typical in demonstrating how central to children and families the structure and impact of the bridge was and is to residents of Duluth.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Passenger steamer North American of the Georgian Bay Line is steaming out of Duluth harbor leaving Duluth. There were many passenger ships and companies used similar names. This vessel had a partner named the South American; both were built in 1913. The Great Lakes is one of the oldest, yet one of the newest cruise destinations. Cruises were being taken as early as 1842, yet the industry had almost disappeared 100 years later. Railroads bought and built steamship lines to compliment railroad services. Some activity continued into the 1960s, but following the departure of the South American in 1966, cruising effectively ceased for thirty years. Houses on Minnesota Point are at the left. The Aerial Bridge gondola or basket transporter is visible behind the stern. These lamp posts on the piers remained until about 1955. This is a print made from a broken glass plate negative: the bottom right corner is missing (black). The photographer's negative number is cut off, only the beginning of his name shows "McK."
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
Spectators watch log rollers in the bay. The Duluth Boat Club was organized July 10, 1886. The original building was built in 1891 at the foot of Seventh Avenue West and the bay front. This, the second facility, was built in 1906 at 1000 Minnesota Avenue on the harbor side. This was a social center of Duluth but you did have to buy a membership. It had nearly 200 rowboats, canoes, and a flotilla of sailboats. Duluth rowers won 20 national championships between 1911 and 1923, as well as hosting the national races in 1916. The club dissolved in 1926 due to flagging interest and debt.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
The Duluth Boat Club was organized July 10, 1886. The original building was built in 1891 at the foot of Seventh Avenue West and the bay front. This, the second facility, was built in 1906 at 1000 Minnesota Avenue on the harbor side. This was a social center of Duluth but you did have to buy a membership. It had nearly 200 rowboats, canoes, and a flotilla of sailboats. Duluth rowers won 20 national championships between 1911 and 1923, as well as hosting the national races in 1916. The club dissolved in 1926 due to flagging interest and debt.
Contributing Institution:
University of Minnesota Duluth, Kathryn A. Martin Library, Northeast Minnesota Historical Collections
This booklet describes the planning and building of the Duluth Aerial Ferry Bridge in 1904-1905. Many photographs and drawings illustrate the progress and describe the working of the bridge. Details on dimensions, specifications, and costs of operation are provided.
Letter dated March 12, 1925 from W. J. Madden, Stillwater Association of Public and Business Affairs to Asa G. Briggs, St. Paul Association of Public and Business Affairs suggesting that the City of St. Paul should share in the expense of a new bridge at Stillwater since many of the people crossing the bridge are travelling to and from St. Paul.
Letter dated April 5, 1928 from Thomas Mac Donald, Chief of Bureau of Public Roads to Senator Henrik Shipstead clarifying federal aid available for bridges, and questioning the eligibility of federal aid for the interstate bridge because of the portion of the bridge within the Stillwater city limits.
Letter dated January 14, 1928 from H. J. Kuelling, Wisconsin Highway Commission to Stillwater City Attorney Edwin D. Buffington clarifying costs and St. Croix County�s responsibility regarding payment.