Minneapolis 1857

This 1857 photograph by Benjamin Franklin Upton, titled "Minneapolis," captures a snapshot of the city in its early years. The image offers a bird's-eye view of the developing town, revealing a landscape punctuated by modest wood-frame homes and a scattering of trees. Upton's detailed composition highlights the presence of a muddy road and a pile of lumber, hinting at ongoing construction and the rapid growth of the city. The photograph provides a valuable glimpse into the early history of Minneapolis, showcasing its transformation from a frontier settlement to a burgeoning urban center.