History

Swany White Flour Mill was built in the late 1800’s by a man named Anton Hoeschen.

1953 photo of Peter (left) and Hubert (right) Thelen celebrating 50 years in business.

There were a few different owners until 1903 when it was purchased by Hubert and Peter Thelen. After these two brothers died it was taken over by Walter Thelen, Pete’s son and Jack Thelen Hubert’s son. Around 1913-1914 the mill was remodeled extensively adding a basement and 3rd story to make it what it was today.

Walter “Pinky” Thelen took over the mill in 1966 after his father Peter retired.

After Walter Thelen took over he recognized the need for more variety in products and more competitive pricing. Eventually this idea generated the need to expand into the organic and specialty product markets. In 1998 the mill was purchased by Gary Thelen, Walter’s son who with his wife Sharon are the current owners. In 1980 Swany White Flour Mill property was entered into the National Register of Historic Sites. This means it has been recognized by the Federal Government as worthy of preservation for its significance in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering and culture

On December 27, 2011 the historic Swany White Flour Mills was destroyed by fire. It was a sad day not only for the Thelen Family who ran the mill for over 100 years but the entire community. Swany White Flour Mill was a huge part of the Freeport skyline. This brings us to where we are today. Since the Swany White name had been around for over 100 years the family decided it wasn’t time to let it die and decided to rebuild the business in a slightly more modern fashion yet creating the same quality affordable products.

Present Day Swany White

Swany White Flour Mill is a central Minnesota based flour wholesaler and manufacturer dedicated to providing our customers with professional services and high quality flour products. Swany White offers only the best flour and products in the industry. Our new facility enables us to provide high levels of quality products that are always fresh and available. Swany White’s primary focus in on keeping our customers satisfied with reliable service, competitive pricing, and a professional and knowledgeable staff.

The new Swany White Flour Mill began construction on June 12, 2012. We carry nearly all of the previous products with again a large focus on organic products. There will be many new and exciting ventures such as small packaging equipment, automated sealing equipment which Gary is looking forward to, and finally the much requested website and on line product sales, this would be Sharon’s dream come true. So thank you to all of our faithful customers who stuck with us through these very trying times, and welcome to any new comers, we think you will like it here at Swany White.