Cloquet

Industrial infrastructure and downtown streetscapes in Carlton County, including the Knife Falls Dam hydroelectric plant and the USG paper mill

Cloquet, Minnesota, is a Carlton County city whose economy has long been shaped by timber, forest products, and industrial manufacturing along the St. Louis River corridor. The Knife Falls Dam hydroelectric plant on the river generates 2.4 megawatts of power, while the USG paper mill on the city's south side continues operating as one of the region's significant industrial complexes.

USG Corporation, which traces its origins to 1902 under the name United States Gypsum, runs the Cloquet facility as part of its continental network producing drywall, joint compound, and ceiling systems. The plant occupies a guarded site with rail siding and large production buildings lit by night security lighting. Downtown, exterior murals on a commercial building add Parisian-themed and storefront imagery to the streetscape, offering a counterpoint to the city's heavy industrial character. This set moves across Cloquet's working landscape, from its river-powered infrastructure to its manufacturing yards and painted building facades.

USG company sign with directional arrow at an industrial facility in Cloquet, Minnesota.
September 23, 2021 — USG Corporation, once known as United States Gypsum, traces its roots to 1902 and today ranks among the largest manufacturers of gypsum wallboard in North America. The company's Cloquet facility sits in a Carlton County city long tied to the region's timber and forest products economy. USG's core products include drywall, joint compound, and ceiling systems sold to builders and contractors across the continent.
Cloquet, Minnesota, building with exterior murals and an outdoor staircase at night.
September 23, 2021 — A downtown building in Cloquet, Minnesota, has exterior murals painted along its side and ground floor. The artwork includes storefront imagery and Parisian-themed s. An exterior stairway provides access to the upper floors.
USG Paper Mill in Cloquet, Minnesota, illuminated at night.
September 23, 2021 — USG Paper Mill in Cloquet, Minnesota, operates as an industrial manufacturing complex on the city’s south side. The facility includes a guarded entrance, rail siding, and large production buildings associated with United States Gypsum’s paper operations. Night security lighting illuminates the plant and adjacent yard.
Knife Falls Dam hydroelectric plant in Cloquet, Minnesota.
July 27, 2019 — Knife Falls Dam in Cloquet, Minnesota. The hydroelectric plant at the dam generates 2.4 megawatts of power.

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