The tall building is the historic Ames Mill, which produced prize-winning flour in the 19th century, not too long after the founding of Northfield. It is still in use today as part of the Malt-O-Meal cereal company's production plant. The golden dome visible just above the left (west) side of the bridge belongs to the State Bank Building, built in 1910 in the Egyptian Revival style and now home to a local law firm that has done much to restore it. In the violent hailstorm of August 2006 (another video here), the dome was damaged and remained covered with tarps for months, but it has now been restored to its golden glory. The not-so-lovely green plastic fencing visible at the lower right is a temporary part of a riverbank relandscaping project designed to encourage taller grasses and discourage Canada geese.
Northfield is best known for being home to two fine liberal arts colleges, Carleton College and St. Olaf College, and for being the site of the defeat of the Jesse James Gang when they tried to rob the First National Bank and were routed by stalwart citizens. The anniversary of the occasion is celebrated with a major community festival, the Defeat of Jesse James Days, each September.
7 comments:
I don't think I would get any work done if that was the view I looked at everyday at work. Beautiful photo and great information. Welcome to sky watch and thanks for sharing.
Prize-winning flour. That's not something you hear often today. Nice shot.
Not only fascinating to read but such a beautiful reflection.
Seems like Minnesota and Texas have similar skies this time of year. Good to learn a bit of the history of the place, too--thanks.
That photo really appeals to me in some way - it's so peaceful and the cloudy sky gives it a bit of an atmosphere (no pun meant!) An interesting stretch of river indeed!
welcome to skywatch
A very nice study in grey tones.
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