Beloved Lutsen Lodge, the Oldest Resort in Minnesota, Devastated by Overnight Fire

The Lutsen Lodge, a historic site on Lake Superior’s North Shore in Minnesota, was severely damaged by a fire on February 6, 2024. The fire was reported by the Lutsen Resort staff around 12:24 am, with smoke first detected in the lobby. Nine local volunteer fire departments and the Cook County Sheriff’s office responded, but the building was already significantly damaged and is now considered a total loss. No injuries were reported.

Bryce Campbell, the owner of the Lutsen Lodge, expressed his sadness over the incident. He emphasized the lodge's importance, stating that it had been a vacation and work spot for many generations. The lodge, established in 1885 by Swedish immigrant Charles Axel Nelson, has been a key part of the hospitality industry in Cook County for nearly 140 years.

The lodge has a long history, remaining in the Nelson family until 1988 when it was bought by Scott Harrison and Nancy Burns. Campbell became the owner in 2018 and during his ownership, the resort underwent several significant renovations. These included the lakeside dining room, The Strand, and a full renovation of the third floor, which housed the original Nelson family apartment.

Linda Jurek, executive director of Visit Cook County, expressed the community's sense of loss over the damage to the oldest resort in Minnesota. Notably, this is not the first time the lodge has suffered from a fire. It experienced fires in 1949 and 1951. After the 1951 fire, the lodge was rebuilt in the distinctive Edwin Lundie style.

Despite the unfortunate incident, Campbell is hopeful about the future of the Lutsen Lodge. He confirmed plans to rebuild and continue the lodge's legacy for future generations. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

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