Lake County Historical Society Faces $100,000 in Repairs After Winter Damages

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — The Lake County Historical Society was gearing for an 100th year anniversary, but recent events has shifted their focus to emergency repairs.

Busted frozen pipes, flooding, and two failed boilers has costed over $100,000 in damages. This happened between two different sites, the 3M Museum and the historic Two Harbor’s Lighthouse.

At the end of December the troubles started with a failed boiler at the birthplace of 3M. Soon after the pipes froze and burst causing flooding in the basement. Luckily, staff was able to quickly remove historical materials before they received any damages.

Later on in early February, a second boiler failed in the Keeper’s Quarters at the Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast. Interior damages were kept to a minimal, but multiple radiators, pipes, and fixtures are in need for a replacement.

The historical society crews were able to save the historical artifacts and documents from the Lighthouse, but the flood waters caused damages along the flooring, drywall, and plumbing.

“We were fortunate enough to have staff on site within 12 hours. So we really stepped up, made sure that damage, further damage couldn’t happen,” said Ellen Lynch, the executive director of the Lake County Historical Society. “All the collections items got pulled out by staff, and within, I’d say, 36 hours, we had vendors lined up and ready to go to try and help us rebuild.”

Lynch said that insurance will cover the majority of the repair costs. But the historical society asking for help from the community to raise $40,000 to cover the remaining repairs.

“These historic structures really do embody the grit and strength of our community, and that’s why we’re reaching out far and wide to help us preserve these buildings for generations to come,” said Lynch.

Until all repairs are completed both the Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast and the 3M Museum will be closed. To donate for the remaining repairs click here.