The Pillsbury A-Mill, completed in 1881 on the east bank of the Mississippi River, was once the largest flour mill in the world and a symbol of Minneapolis’s dominance in global grain production. Designed by architect LeRoy Buffington and engineer William de la Barre, the mill harnessed the power of St. Anthony Falls to grind over 5,000 barrels of flour a day at its peak. Its innovative use of water turbines, reinforced limestone walls, and massive storage elevators represented the cutting edge of 19th-century milling technology. Today, the restored complex — now repurposed as artist lofts — stands as a National Historic Landmark and a reminder of the city’s industrial ingenuity.

The former Pillsbury flour mills as seen from downtown Minneapolis.

The former Pillsbury flour mill near downtown Minneapolis. It's since been renovated into condos.

The former Pillsbury mills on the Mississippi River near downtown Minneapolis.

The view from the Prospect Park Water Tower in Minneapolis.

The Pillsbury A-Mill is a former flour mill located on the east bank of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It held the distinction of being the world's largest flour mill for 40 years. Completed in 1881, it was owned by the Pillsbury Company and operated two of the most powerful direct-drive waterwheels ever built, each capable of generating 1,200 horsepower (895 kW). The mill was named a National Historic Landmark in 1966 and has since been converted into resident artist lofts.

Northeast Minneapolis with US Bank Stadium across the Mississippi River.

Pillsbury A Mill in Minneapolis. At one time, the worlds largest flour mill.