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Today in History: Mississippi River Breaches Eastman Tunnel in Minnesota

10/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 5, 1869, during the construction of the Eastman tunnel in St. Anthony, Minnesota, the Mississippi River breached the tunnel's limestone ceiling. This incident nearly devastated Saint Anthony Falls, the only major natural waterfall on the river. The tunnel was crucial for supporting water-powered industries upstream, highlighting the river's significance to the region's development.

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Story summary

On October 5, 1869, during the construction of the Eastman tunnel in St. Anthony, Minnesota, the Mississippi River breached the tunnel's limestone ceiling. This incident nearly devastated Saint Anthony Falls, the only major natural waterfall on the river. The tunnel was crucial for supporting water-powered industries upstream, highlighting the river's significance to the region's development.