LUSTEN — The Historic Lutsen Lodge was destroyed in a fire early Tuesday, the resort said on social media.

Cook County Dispatch was notified of a fire alarm at the resort at 12:24 a.m. Tuesday, according to a press release from Cook County. Resort staff reported smoke coming from the floor in the lobby area. The building was engulfed.

No guests were on site and no one was injured.

The state fire marshal is investigating the fire.

Founded in 1885 by Swedish immigrant Charles Axel, Lutsen is considered Minnesota’s oldest active resort.

On social media, early reaction to the news included a statement from U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.:

“Thinking of the workers and people on the North Shore and all the memories for so many Minnesota families…” Klobuchar wrote on X (forrmerly Twitter).

People were sharing those memories on Lutsen’s Facebook page:

“Spent our honeymoon here in 1984. Visited often ever since then. Heartbreaking…”

“I’m so sorry to hear this. My husband and I are staying at the Sea Villas and heard the sirens last night glad I didn’t look it up last night I wouldn’t have slept. This was my favorite place I’ve ever been I’m heartbroken.”

“After 51 years of loving her, I’m too busy grieving this landmark to think about building back yet. To the local fire depts that responded (and that are still there this very moment)-thank you. I’m grateful everyone is ok and will cherish my numerous childhood memories, special family meals, prom, intimate concerts in the lobby and on the beach, and of course our wedding reception in 1999. Lutsen Resort, thank you for the memories. I’m grateful our son is old enough to remember you because they don’t build them like that anymore …”

— This breaking news report will be updated. 

— The Pioneer Press contributed to this report.

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