On This Date in Minnesota History: February 16

February 16, 1915 – The George Tileston Flour Mills, St. Cloud, now owned and operated by the Great Northern Flour Mills Company, burned to the ground this afternoon. The loss, which is total, is estimated at between $125,000 and $150,000. The blaze originated, it is believed, from a hot box in the upper story and spread quickly to the rest of the structure. The Tileston Mills were built 26 years ago. Several carloads of wheat stored in the mill itself are included in the loss.

It is not known as yet whether the mill will be rebuilt, though present contracts for flour, it was announced this evening, would be fulfilled. The mills were the largest west of Minneapolis, having a capacity of 1,200 barrels. Local firemen had narrow escapes when two walls fell out, burying their hose.

The Minneapolis Morning Tribune; “$150,000 Fire at St. Cloud. Tileston Flour Mills, Largest West of Minneapolis, Are a Total Loss.”; Feb. 17, 1915; p. 2.

George Tileston Flour Mills, St. Cloud

http://www.lakesnwoods.com/images/StClou186.jpg

               __________________________________________________________

If you are interested in finding out more about your family history in Minnesota, I specialize in researching  genealogical and historical records in Minn. and western Wis., including: census records,  birth records,  death certificates, obits, grave site photos, ship passenger lists, marriage records and declarations of intent/naturalization records.  I will visit locations to research local history and county records, as well as take photos. Quick turnaround on MNHS records. Both short searches and family history reports available.

                                                         

Discover your roots, and watch the branches of your family tree begin to grow.

Website:  TheMemoryQuilt.com > click on Family History

Contact me at: pjefamilyresearch@gmail.com