Industry News
On Tuesday morning, Feburary 6, at approximately 12:24 am the Lutsen Resort staff reported smoke coming from the lobby area of the Historic Lutsen Lodge at Lake Superior, Minnesota. Promptly, nine local volunteer fire departments along with the Cook County Sheriff’s office responded to the call. Unfortunately, the building was completely engulfed in flames and is reported as a total loss. No injuries are reported.
“We are absolutely devastated about this tragedy. There are so many generations of families and friends who have vacationed and worked here over the years. This place has held so many memories, today we grieve together.”
— Bryce Campbell, Owner Historic Lutsen Lodge
Lutsen Resort was founded in 1885 by Charles Axel Nelson, a young Swedish immigrant, as a small fishing camp. It remained in the Nelson family until 1988 when Scott Harrison and Nancy Burns purchased the resort. In 2018 Bryce Campbell purchased the resort. During his tenure, the resort has undergone several major renovations including the historic lakeside dining room The Strand and most recently, a complete renovation of the third floor of the resort which included the original apartment of the Nelson family.
“Lutsen Resort has been at the heart of the hospitality industry in Cook County for nearly 140 years. Its loss is felt deeply in the community.”
— Linda Jurek, Executive Director Visit Cook County
As the oldest resort in Minnesota, this is not the first fire at the lodge. In 1949 and 1951, there were back-to-back fires. After the 1951 fire, the lodge was rebuilt in the iconic Edwin Lundie style that it is known for today. “There are a lot of unknowns right now, but what we do know is that we will rebuild again and continue to keep the legacy of Historic Lutsen Lodge going for many generations to come,” added Campbell.
“The amazing memories made here are in our hearts as we begin the heavy weighted process to rebuilt back better.”
— Historic Lutsen Lodge Facebook
