On This Date in Minnesota History: November 17

November 17, 1911 – David Carlson, “the human torch” who received a shock from 13,000 volts at Great Northern Power Company in Duluth, died at St. Mary’s Hospital today. Carlson made a brave struggle for life, but gradually became weaker until death resulted.

While doing some cleaning work, Carlson was caught in contact with a switch and it became necessary to shut down the whole plant before he could be released.

The Minneapolis Morning Tribune; “’Human Torch’ Finally Dies. Duluth Man ‘Took’ 13,000 Volts of Electricity.”; Nov. 18, 1911; p. 1.

The Duluth Herald; “David Carlson’s Agony is Ended. Workman Burned By Electricity Dies at St. Mary’s Hospital.”; Nov. 17, 1911; p, 23.

http://www.health.umn.edu/about/living-minnesota/duluth

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