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A Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert post on Facebook on Monday:
"May 19, 1857, marks the official incorporation of Duluth as a town. The road wasn't easy - an economic downturn struck that same year and was followed by a scarlet fever epidemic just two years later. In 1870, Duluth was incorporated as a city. The Panic of 1873 caused a severe economic downturn that hit Duluth hard. As a result of the crash and the population decline, Duluth lost its city charter in 1877, effectively ceasing to be an incorporated city. Duluth was later reincorporated again as a city in 1887. Economic conditions and growth had returned, largely driven by renewed mining and shipping activity.Fueled by copper, iron ore, and timber, our city quickly became a hub of opportunity. We became the northern terminus for the Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad to Duluth. Combined with our deep-water port, Duluth emerged as a critical center for commerce and transportation.168 years later natural resources and our natural environment continue to define our present and our future. A regional center with rail, port, airport, and freeway is a competitive advantage in a world where logistics are fundamental to economic growth."
