Outpouring of community support and memories after fire destroys Historic Lutsen Lodge, owners intend to rebuild

Feb 07, 2024 08:31AM ● By Content Editor

Photo: Photo: Lutsen Volunteer Fire and EMS Department

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - February 7, 2024

Hundreds of messages of community support, memories from people near and far, and thank-yous were shared across social media yesterday after a fire destroyed the Historic Lutsen Lodge.

February 8 update: MN State Fire Marshall issues details of previous fire inspection at the Historic Lutsen Lodge, which found seven violations, three still unresolved

The fire, which is currently being investigated by the Minnesota State Fire Marshall, began slightly before 12:30am on February 6th. According to the Associated Press, "The only staffer on duty spotted smoke coming from electrical outlets in the floor in the lobby and called 911, manager Edward Vanegas said. The employee made it out safely. No guests were checked in because it was early in the week, Vanegas said."

Around 10:30 that morning, the Lutsen Volunteer Fire and EMS Department issued a notice on Facebook that the area was still an active scene, and asked people to stay away.

The Historic Lutsen Resort was one of Minnesota's oldest resorts, starting in 1885. The building was was designed by Edwin Lundie, an architect from St. Paul, "Who drew on Norwegian and Swedish architectural influences," according to AP News. Since its inception, the main lodge has experienced fires three separate times: 1949, 1951, and yesterday. Many people shared photos and memories of their time spent at the resort, while expressing great sadness over the loss. Others talked about working summers along the iconic grounds.

The Associated Press reports that "Lodge officials still have those original plans and intend to rebuild once again using the same design, updated for current building codes," according to Vanegas.

The following are photos and messages of thanks and support from the local community.

Photo: Cascade Lodge and Restaurant

Cascade Lodge and Restaurant

This morning around 6:45 a.m. we received a call from Lutsen Fire Department that the crews have been battling fire at Lutsen Resort all night, and that the firefighters were getting hungry. We immediately volunteered and delivered 26 meals and 2 gallons of coffee by 8am to all of the hardworking firefighters on scene. It was surreal seeing what is left over of what was once the beautiful Lutsen Resort main lodge. Our hearts go out to the employees of Lutsen Resort and our thanks go to all of the first responders.

Image: North Shore Health. Photos: NSH Paramedic Kate Batten and NSH EMT/Lutsen Firefighter Ben Belland

North Shore Health, Cook County

Thankful for our fellow fire groups, near and far, who have been battling the Lutsen Resort fire since midnight.

We’re here for you.

-North Shore Health EMS
-Karla, Director of EMS

Lutsen Volunteer Fire and EMS Department

Thank you all who came out and supported us. It means a great deal to us and in the end, even though this iconic piece of the North Shore is gone, the owners plan to rebuild. Everyone went home safely and we consider that a win.

Thank you to:

Silver Bay Fire Department

Finland Fire Department

Schroeder Fire Department

Tofte Fire Department

Grand Marais Volunteer Fire Dept

Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department

Maple Hill Community Fire Department

Cook County Sheriff's Office & Public Safety

North Shore Health Ambulance

North Shore Health, Cook County

Cascade Lodge and Restaurant

Clearview General Store

Arrowhead Electric

Cook County Hwy Dept

Mike Rose Excavating

North Shore Oil and Propane

-Lutsen Fire and EMS