What prompted Franklin Steele to move west, and how did he travel to Fort Snelling?

Encouraged by his future brother-in-law, Henry Hastings Sibley, Franklin Steele saw potential opportunities on the western frontier. He traveled to Fort Snelling via the steamboat Burlington, arriving on June 18, 1838.

What was Franklin Steele's initial role upon arriving at Fort Snelling in 1838?

Upon his arrival at Fort Snelling in June 1838, Franklin Steele quickly established himself as a storekeeper at the fort. This position allowed him to become familiar with the area and its potential.

What was the land situation at St. Anthony Falls when Franklin Steele arrived, and what significant claim did he make?

At the time of Steele's arrival, the land around St. Anthony Falls, on both sides of the Mississippi River, was part of the Fort Snelling Reservation controlled by the U.S. government. Despite over 150 unofficial claims by squatters, Steele staked the first official claim on the east bank of the river before sunrise on the first day of legal settlement in 1838. This claim encompassed a half-mile of riverfront, giving him control over half of the water power generated by St. Anthony Falls.

Who was Pierre Bottineau, and what was his connection to the land claims at St. Anthony Falls?

Pierre Bottineau was a figure of Métis heritage, with French-Canadian, Ojibwe, and Dakota ancestry. He claimed land adjacent to Franklin Steele's significant claim at St. Anthony Falls.

When and how did Franklin Steele secure the necessary financing to develop his claim at St. Anthony Falls?

Franklin Steele managed to secure financing in 1847, obtaining $12,000 for a 90 percent stake in the property he had claimed. This financial backing was crucial for his subsequent development plans.

What was the significance of President James K. Polk's approval in 1848 regarding St. Anthony Falls?

In May 1848, President Polk approved the land claims made in St. Anthony. This approval legally enabled Franklin Steele to proceed with building his dam on the east side of the river above the falls.

Describe the construction and dimensions of the dam Franklin Steele built on the east side of St. Anthony Falls.

Franklin Steele's dam was a substantial structure built on the east side of St. Anthony Falls. It extended 700 feet (210 meters) diagonally into the river, stood 16 feet (5 meters) high, and was secured to the limestone riverbed. Its thickness tapered from 40 feet (12 meters) at the base to 12 feet (4 meters) at the top.

What was the purpose of dispatching logging crews to the Crow Wing River in December 1847?

The logging crews were dispatched to the Crow Wing River to supply pine timber for Franklin Steele's sawmill. This ensured a local source of lumber for the burgeoning community.

When did Steele's sawmill begin operations, and what was its initial output?

By September 1, 1848, Franklin Steele's sawmill commenced operations. It was equipped with two up-down saws, which were used to process the pine logs into lumber for sale.

Who was Ard Godfrey, and what role did he play in the development of St. Anthony Falls?

Ard Godfrey was hired by Franklin Steele to assist in building and operating the first commercial sawmill at St. Anthony Falls. Godfrey possessed expertise in efficiently utilizing natural resources like the falls and pine forests for lumber production. He also built the first home in St. Anthony.

How did Franklin Steele contribute to the formal establishment of the town of St. Anthony?

Franklin Steele played a key role in the formalization of St. Anthony. He had the town platted in 1849, and it was subsequently incorporated as a city in 1855.

What challenges did the west bank of the Mississippi River present for development, and how did Steele address this?

The west bank of the Mississippi River remained under the control of Fort Snelling until late 1849. To facilitate development there, Franklin Steele persuaded his friend John H. Stevens to negotiate for 160 acres of land in what is now Minneapolis. Stevens' role involved ferrying troops to supply Fort Ripley in exchange for securing this land.

What was the significance of the Treaty of Traverse des Sioux in 1851 for the region?

The Treaty of Traverse des Sioux, negotiated in 1851, was a pivotal event where nearly all remaining land in Minnesota was taken from the Native American tribes. This action paved the way for further settlement and development of the territory.

How did Congress's actions in 1852 impact the development of Minneapolis?

In 1852, Congress passed a bill to relinquish 26,000 acres of land previously part of Fort Snelling. This legislative action opened the door for the eventual development of Minneapolis on the west bank of the river.

What was the St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company, and when was it formed?

Franklin Steele established the St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company in 1856. He co-founded it with three financiers from New York, aiming to further develop and capitalize on the water power resources of the falls.

What difficulties did the St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company encounter after its formation?

The St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company faced several significant challenges in its early years. These included strained relations with its New York financiers, a broader economic depression, and the disruptions caused by the U.S. Civil War.

How was the St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company reorganized in 1868?

In 1868, the St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company underwent a reorganization with new leadership. Prominent figures such as John Pillsbury, Richard and Samuel Chute, Sumner Farnham, and Frederick Butterfield joined the company's management.

What were the primary methods of crossing the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Anthony before the construction of permanent bridges?

Before permanent bridges were established, crossing the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Anthony was challenging. People relied on a rope-drawn ferry, walked across the frozen river in winter, or used floating log booms that often obstructed the channel.

What led Franklin Steele to anticipate the need for a permanent bridge across the Mississippi River?

Franklin Steele recognized the rapid growth of both Minneapolis and St. Anthony, and the shared reliance on the falls' resources. He foresaw that a permanent bridge would be essential to connect the two burgeoning communities and facilitate commerce and transportation, even as early as 1852.

Describe the first major suspension bridge built by Franklin Steele's company.

Franklin Steele formed the Mississippi Bridge Company to construct a significant suspension bridge. This structure was 620 feet (189 meters) long and 17 feet (5 meters) wide, designed by Thomas Griffith. It linked Minneapolis to Nicollet Island and was opened on January 23, 1855.

What were the initial tolls for crossing the first Mississippi River suspension bridge?

As a private enterprise, the bridge built by Steele's Mississippi Bridge Company levied tolls on its users. Pedestrians were charged five cents, horse-drawn wagons twenty-five cents, and swine and sheep each cost two cents to cross.

How did Franklin Steele's bridges contribute to the eventual unification of Minneapolis and St. Anthony?

Franklin Steele's efforts created the first permanent bridge system spanning the Mississippi River at that location. He built a shorter bridge from Nicollet Island to St. Anthony in 1853, complementing the main bridge to Minneapolis. Together, these structures physically linked the two cities, which later legally merged in 1872 to form the city of Minneapolis.

What is the etymology of the name 'Minneapolis'?

The name 'Minneapolis' is a linguistic blend derived from the Dakota Indian word 'minne' (or 'mni'), meaning 'water,' and the Greek word 'polis,' meaning 'city.' This combination aptly reflects its location on the water and its status as a growing urban center.

When and for how much did Franklin Steele purchase Fort Snelling?

By 1858, Franklin Steele acquired Fort Snelling and approximately 8,000 acres of surrounding land for $90,000. This purchase occurred as the U.S. government no longer required the fort as a frontier outpost.

How was Fort Snelling utilized during the Civil War after Steele's purchase?

Although Franklin Steele owned Fort Snelling during the Civil War, he leased it back to the federal government. The fort served as an induction station for troops during the conflict.

What was Franklin Steele's contribution to the establishment of the University of Minnesota?

In 1851, the Minnesota Territorial Legislature established a college-preparatory school in Minneapolis. Franklin Steele supported this initiative by donating four acres of land located in St. Anthony to the newly created institution.

When and where did Franklin Steele die, and what was his age at the time of his death?

Franklin Steele died on September 10, 1880, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was 67 years old at the time of his passing.

Where is Franklin Steele interred?

Franklin Steele is buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, located in Washington, D.C.

What geographical areas are named in honor of Franklin Steele?

Two significant locations bear Franklin Steele's name: Steele County in Minnesota, and Franklin Steele Square, a public space located in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

What does the image of Franklin Steele depict?

The image is a portrait of Franklin Steele, likely taken during his lifetime, serving as a visual representation of the early Minneapolis settler.

What does the image captioned 'Sawmills.jpg' illustrate?

The image, captioned 'Looking northeast across the river c. 1868,' likely depicts the St. Anthony Falls area around 1868, showcasing the sawmills and the river landscape that were central to the region's early industrial development.

What does the image captioned 'Steele's first bridge ca. 1865' show?

The image titled 'Steele's first bridge ca. 1865' provides a visual record of the early suspension bridge constructed over the Mississippi River, likely the one linking Minneapolis to Nicollet Island, during the mid-1860s.

What is the primary focus of the 'Further reading' section regarding Franklin Steele?

The 'Further reading' section points to a specific article titled 'The Great Treasure of the Fort Snelling Prison Camp' published in Minnesota History in the Spring 2010 issue, authored by William Millikan. This suggests additional historical context related to the Fort Snelling area during Steele's time.

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Biography

Early Life and Origins

Franklin Steele was born around 1813 in Chester County, Pennsylvania, into a family of Scottish descent. In his youth, he worked in the post office in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, an experience that once afforded him the opportunity to meet President James Buchanan. This early exposure to public service and administration laid a foundation for his later endeavors in shaping a burgeoning frontier community.

Journey to the Frontier

Encouraged by his future brother-in-law, Henry Hastings Sibley, a prominent figure in the region, Steele embarked on a journey westward. He arrived at Fort Snelling, Minnesota, on June 18, 1838, aboard the steamboat Burlington. This marked the beginning of his significant involvement in the settlement and development of what would become Minneapolis.

Settler and Storekeeper

Upon his arrival, Steele quickly established himself as a storekeeper at Fort Snelling. At this time, the land surrounding St. Anthony Falls was largely under government control. However, Steele was among the early individuals who recognized the immense potential of this strategic location, particularly its water power resources.

Career and Development

Claiming St. Anthony Falls

In 1838, Steele staked the first official claim on the east bank of the Mississippi River at St. Anthony Falls, securing control over half of the falls' water power. This strategic claim positioned him at the heart of the area's future industrial development. He later secured financing to build a dam and establish a sawmill, laying the groundwork for the town of St. Anthony.

Partnerships and Growth

Steele collaborated with figures like Ard Godfrey, who helped build and manage the first commercial sawmill. He also worked with John H. Stevens to secure land on the west bank of the river, contributing to the eventual development of Minneapolis. His vision extended to creating infrastructure, including the first permanent bridge across the Mississippi River.

Establishing St. Anthony

Steele had the town of St. Anthony platted in 1849, and it was incorporated in 1855. His efforts, alongside those of other entrepreneurs, transformed the area around the falls into a hub of activity, attracting further settlement and investment.

Lumber Mills and Industry

Powering the Sawmill

Recognizing the potential of the St. Anthony Falls' water power, Steele constructed a substantial dam on the east bank. This dam, engineered to harness the river's force, supplied power to his sawmill. Logging crews were dispatched to gather pine timber from the Crow Wing River, ensuring a steady supply for the mill.

Early Operations

By September 1, 1848, Steele's sawmill commenced operations, utilizing two up-down saws. The lumber produced was readily sold, fueling the construction boom in the rapidly growing town. This venture marked a critical step in transforming the region's natural resources into economic prosperity.

Vision for Development

Steele's foresight extended beyond sawmills. He was instrumental in establishing the St. Anthony Falls Water Power Company in 1856, aiming to further capitalize on the river's energy. Despite facing financial challenges and the disruptions of the Civil War, the company was reorganized, attracting prominent figures like John Pillsbury, solidifying the industrial base of the future Minneapolis.

Bridging Communities

The Need for Connection

The burgeoning communities of Minneapolis and St. Anthony, situated on opposite sides of the Mississippi River at the falls, relied on rudimentary crossing methods like ferries and frozen river paths. Steele foresaw the necessity of a permanent link to facilitate growth and commerce between the two settlements.

Constructing the First Span

In 1852, Steele initiated the formation of the Mississippi Bridge Company. By 1855, the company had completed a 620-foot suspension bridge, linking Minneapolis to Nicollet Island. This was soon followed by a second bridge connecting Nicollet Island to St. Anthony, creating the first permanent river crossing on the entire Mississippi River.

The initial suspension bridge, designed by Thomas Griffith, was a private enterprise that levied tolls: five cents per pedestrian, twenty-five cents per horse-drawn wagon, and two cents for swine and sheep. Its construction was a monumental engineering feat for its time and era, directly enabling the eventual merger of the two cities into Minneapolis in 1872.

Land Acquisition and Development

Securing West Bank Claims

While St. Anthony flourished on the east bank, the west bank remained under Fort Snelling's jurisdiction. In late 1849, Steele enlisted John H. Stevens to negotiate for 160 acres on the west bank, a deal that involved Stevens ferrying troops to Fort Ripley. The subsequent Treaty of Traverse des Sioux in 1851 and Congressional approval in 1852 opened this land for development.

Enabling Settlement

By 1855, Congress recognized the rights of squatters to purchase claimed land. This paved the way for the rapid development of numerous mills and businesses on the west bank, complementing the growth on the east. Steele's earlier claim and subsequent development efforts were foundational to the creation of modern Minneapolis.

Purchase of Fort Snelling

In 1858, Steele acquired the Fort Snelling property and surrounding acreage from the government. Although he leased it back to the government during the Civil War for use as an induction station, he later leased the land to settlers, further contributing to the city's expansion. The city of Minneapolis was officially incorporated in 1867.

Founding Contributions

Supporting Education

Franklin Steele's vision extended to the establishment of higher education in the region. In 1851, the Minnesota Territorial Legislature chartered a college-preparatory school in Minneapolis. Steele demonstrated his commitment to this initiative by donating four acres of land in St. Anthony to the newly created institution, which would eventually grow into the University of Minnesota.

Passing and Burial

Final Resting Place

Franklin Steele passed away on September 10, 1880, at the age of 67 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was laid to rest in the historic Oak Hill Cemetery in Washington, D.C., concluding the life of a man whose actions profoundly shaped the landscape and future of Minneapolis.

Enduring Legacy

Places Named in His Honor

Franklin Steele's significant contributions to the development of Minnesota are recognized through geographical naming conventions. He is commemorated by:

Steele County, Minnesota: Established in 1855, this county bears his name, reflecting his foundational role in the state's settlement.
Franklin Steele Square: A public space in Minneapolis dedicated to his memory, serving as a reminder of his impact on the city's urban fabric.

Shaping Minneapolis

Steele's influence is woven into the very structure of Minneapolis. His strategic land claims, industrial ventures, and infrastructure projects, particularly the development around St. Anthony Falls and the construction of the first Mississippi River bridge, were critical catalysts for the city's growth from a frontier outpost to a major urban center.

References

Millikan, William (Spring 2010). "The Great Treasure of the Fort Snelling Prison Camp". Minnesota History. 62 (1): 4–17.
"The Tale of Two Cities". Minnesota: A State Guide. New Deal Network. Archived from the original on July 1, 2007. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
"History of the Minneapolis Riverfront District and vicinity". Bridges. Minneapolis Riverfront District. Archived from the original on June 20, 2007. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
"St. Anthony Falls: Timber, Flour, and Electricity" (PDF). National Park Service. Archived from the original (PDF) on August 8, 2007. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
"Wheat Farms, Flour Mills, and Railroads: A Web of Interdependence". Archived from the original on May 18, 2007. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
Cuyler Reynolds. Genealogical and family history of southern New York and the Hudson River Valley. Lewis Historical Pub. Co., 1914.
"1838: Franklin Steele claims land at the Falls". Timeline. Minnesota Historical Society. Archived from the original on May 3, 2003. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
"Old St. Anthony". Mississippi River Design Initiative. University of Minnesota. Archived from the original on June 28, 2007. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
"First Hennepin Avenue Suspension Bridge (1854/55 - 1876)". Bridges. Minneapolis Riverfront District. Archived from the original on June 9, 2007. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
"A Sense Of Place: The Legacy of Names". Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Archived July 1, 2007, at the Wayback Machine.
"Fort Snelling State Park Upper Bluff Reuse Study" (PDF). Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. November 1998. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 7, 2008.
"Urban Connections - Minneapolis". USDA Forest Service. Archived from the original on May 15, 2008. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
Franzen, Carl. "Humble Beginnings by the Falls: A hardscrabble start for the founders of the University". Winter 2001. Regents of the University of Minnesota. Archived from the original on May 2, 2005. Retrieved May 29, 2007.
Upham, Warren (2001). Minnesota Place Names: A Geographical Encyclopedia. Minnesota Historical Society Press. ISBN 978-0-87351-396-8.
Delo, David M. (December 1998). Peddlers and Post Traders: The Army Sutler on the Frontier. Kingfisher Books. ISBN 978-0-9662218-1-7.
"Funeral of Franklin Steele". The Washington Post. September 17, 1880. p. 1. Retrieved August 25, 2025 – via Newspapers.com.
Upham, Warren (1920). Minnesota Geographic Names: Their Origin and Historic Significance. Minnesota Historical Society. p. 531.

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Franklin Steele

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Biography 👤

📜 Early Life and Origins

➡️ Journey to the Frontier

🏠 Settler and Storekeeper

Career and Development 💼

🏞️ Claiming St. Anthony Falls

🤝 Partnerships and Growth

🏢 Establishing St. Anthony

Lumber Mills and Industry 🌲

🏭 Powering the Sawmill

🏗️ Early Operations

💡 Vision for Development

Bridging Communities 🌉

🌉 The Need for Connection

🏗️ Constructing the First Span

Land Acquisition and Development 🏞️

📜 Securing West Bank Claims

🏡 Enabling Settlement

🏰 Purchase of Fort Snelling

Founding Contributions 🎓

🏫 Supporting Education

Passing and Burial 💀

⚰️ Final Resting Place

Enduring Legacy 🏆

📍 Places Named in His Honor

🏙️ Shaping Minneapolis

References 📚

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Biography

Early Life and Origins

Journey to the Frontier

Settler and Storekeeper

Career and Development

Claiming St. Anthony Falls

Partnerships and Growth

Establishing St. Anthony

Lumber Mills and Industry

Powering the Sawmill

Early Operations

Vision for Development

Bridging Communities

The Need for Connection

Constructing the First Span

Land Acquisition and Development

Securing West Bank Claims

Enabling Settlement

Purchase of Fort Snelling

Founding Contributions

Supporting Education

Passing and Burial

Final Resting Place

Enduring Legacy

Places Named in His Honor

Shaping Minneapolis

References

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice