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Fire has razed the iconic Lutsen Lodge, a historic resort situated along the North Shore. The fire was reported just before 12:30 am on Tuesday. Due to the massive blaze, the entire lodge building was destroyed.
The historic lodge, built in 1885, is Minnesota's first and oldest resort.
According to reports from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, staff members at the lodge raised the alarm upon noticing smoke emanating from the lobby area. Despite swift responses from fire departments across the region, including Lutsen, Tofte, Grand Marais, and others, the flames engulfed the structure entirely.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and there were no guests present on the premises at the time of the fire. The Lutsen Lodge shared a post on Facebook in which they mentioned,
"The Historic Lutsen Lodge has been taken by a devastating fire this evening…. A total loss to the lodge building…. Fires in 1949, 1951 and 2024. The amazing memories made here are in our hearts as we begin the heavy weighted process to rebuilt back better."
It is worth noting that this is the third such incident where a fire has been reported in the historic lodge. Earlier, the blazes in the lodge took place in 1949 and 1951.
Lutsen Lodge has been popular for its rich history and architecture
Lutsen Lodge, which is situated along Minnesota's North Shore, is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Established in 1885 by Swedish immigrant Charles Axel Nelson, the lodge served as a cherished retreat for travelers seeking respite amidst the natural beauty of Lake Superior.
Over the years, it became a symbol of Minnesota's hospitality, offering guests a warm welcome and unforgettable experiences. The lodge's fame extended beyond its historical significance, as its Scandinavian-inspired design, crafted by architect Edwin Hugh Lundie, captivated visitors with its intricate details and timeless charm.
From its humble beginnings as an inn to its transformation into a premier resort destination, this lodge held a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike, embodying the spirit of Minnesota's North Shore and leaving an indelible mark on the state's tourism landscape.
History of how the historical lodge was named, explored
According to the lodge's website, in 1885, Charles Axel Nelson, a Swedish immigrant, purchased 160 acres of land near the Poplar River mouth for a mere $12, where he built a wooden house for his family. As travelers passed through the area, seeking refuge either by boat or on foot, they found shelter at Nelson's humble abode.
Early guests slept on the second floor of the house or in the barn's hayloft, while Nelson's wife, Anna, tirelessly cooked for them. Over time, as the number of visitors increased, the Nelson family replaced their home with a purpose-built hotel to better accommodate their guests.
The hotel, named in honor of the 1632 battle of Lützen in the Thirty Years War, witnessed a steady rise in popularity. By 1895, newspaper reports began referring to the area as "Lutsen," a name that stuck.
