Baltic in Minnehaha County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)

Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam

April 22, 2023

1. Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Marker

Inscription. In 1881 Frank and Justin Pettigrew began construction of the power dam and flour mill at this site where portions of the foundation remain. The mill and the railroad were the nucleus of the town which was first called St. Olaf, later called Keyes, and finally changed to Baltic.

The mill produced 120 barrels of flour daily. The water wheel produced 110 horsepower and an alternate steam engine generated another 65 horsepower. The power generated by the mill also supplied electricity to Baltic and Dell Rapids until it ceased operation in 1916.

Baltic celebrated the 100th anniversary of its founding in 1981.

Erected 1981 by the 1981 Baltic Community Centennial Committee. (Marker Number 626.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the South Dakota State Historical Society Markers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1881.

Location. 43° 45.876′ N, 96° 44.283′ W. Marker is in Baltic, South Dakota, in Minnehaha County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Elm Avenue and 2nd Street. Located on the east side of the Big Sioux River, across from River Park. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Baltic SD 57003, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers

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are within 5 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Mill Wheel (approx. 3.9 miles away); Willow Creek Lutheran Church (approx. 4.1 miles away); To Gina Smith Campbell (approx. 4.2 miles away); John Thompson, Pioneer / Early Settlers' Association (approx. 4.2 miles away); Railroad Caboose (approx. 4.3 miles away); Dell Rapids (approx. 4.3 miles away); To God Be The Glory! (approx. 5 miles away); Oyen-Person Log Cabin (approx. 5 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Baltic.

April 22, 2023

2. Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Marker

April 22, 2023

3. Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Marker

Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Ruins image. Click for full size.

April 22, 2023

4. Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Ruins

April 22, 2023

5. Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Ruins

Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Ruins, view from River Park image. Click for full size.

August 27, 2022

6. Saint Olaf Roller Mill and Power Dam Ruins, view from River Park

Credits. This page was last revised on May 6, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 6, 2023. This page has been viewed 118 times since then and 36 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on May 6, 2023.