It’s No Surprise Minnesota Gave Birth To This Utility
Chances are you see one, maybe two every day on your way to and from work. You'd think for all the innovation that the state of Minnesota is known for (I.E. Post It Notes, Rollerblades, and even the Tilt-A-Whirl) I wouldn't have been surprised to learn that we are also responsible for the first 'cylindrical concrete' grain elevator. I mean they really are something to wonder about, plus they give us great Youtube videos that make you question peoples intelligence!
Back to the history portion of the silo/grain elevator. The Peavey-Haglin Experimental Concrete Grain Elevator was built from 1899 to 1900 in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. It was meant to be an experiment to prove that the concrete design was viable. Surprise! It was a huge improvement over the commonly erected wooden elevators that were continually at risk for catching fire or even exploding.
Its cylindrical concrete design became the industry standard in the United States, revolutionizing grain storage practices. Want to see it? You're in luck as the Peavey–Haglin Experimental Concrete Grain Elevator now stands near the busy interchange of State Highways 7 and 100.