Saint Paul’s Sandstone Bluffs
One of the first thing’s early settlers noticed as they came upon what is now called Saint Paul, were the beautiful white sandstone bluffs. They are made from one of the purest veins of silica available, and thus ideal for making glass products (canning jars, beer bottles, and glass windows). This set off the “Great Silica Rush of 1849″, as groups of men began mining out the silica from the bluffs along the Mississippi. It was used for most of the glass in the region and was shipped as far North as Winnipeg, Canada.
Once the silica had been mined, great caverns remained that were used for cooling of fruits and vegetables to be sold at the local markets. The 52-degree constant temperature made for a free and convenient refrigeration source for perishable items.
You can hear the complete history of the Sandstone Bluffs during the Historic Cave Tour of the Wabasha Street Caves (215 Wabasha Street South, Saint Paul, MN) done for the public Thursdays at 5 pm and Saturday & Sundays at 11 am year – round. Groups can be arranged most days so please call the office. 651-292-1220. See you underground.
