|
 THE INN
The Homestead, original to the property, was built in 1902 by Swedish immigrants Gust Fredholm and wife Kristina. Their two children, Carl and Augusta, never married and stayed on the farm until their deaths. The Innkeeper's mother (who had been coming to the property every summer of her life), together with her husband purchased the farm from Augusta shortly before the latter's death.
Though it still looks much as it did when built, it went through a massive renovation--it had neither central heat nor plumbing. Today she again stands a proud "Swedish Lady" assuring guests of luxury and comfort. The Loghouse, circa 1889, was built by the innkeeper's Danish great-great-grandfather Peter Jensen and his wife Anna. It was moved intact 80 miles over four days from northern Minnesota with the innkeeper's 85-year-old grandfather sitting atop the roof with a wooden "fork" to raise low-hanging electrical lines. It now rests serenely on a knoll overlooking Spirit Lake. The logs still wear their original whitewash. Newspapers found in the walls were framed and hang throughout the house. Two especially well preserved fragments carry the original mailing label. Electricity and plumbing were added (each bedroom has its own bath) and an 80-year-old carpenter replicated the windows and doors from remaining fragments. Six succeeding generations have slept under its roof. 
Photo by R S Photography | 
Suzanne beside
"Lady & Her Dog"
a wire and metal sculpture by Norm Buktenica
| and ITS KEEPER(S)
Suzanne Tweten has been coming to this property since she was born, as did her mother before her. Her parents opened the doors of the Log House in June 1990 as a hobby upon their retirement from the Foreign Service. Within a few years, guest demand justified expansion to the Homestead. What had been a seasonal enterprise, quickly grew to a year-round operation and an overly demanding vocation. They needed help! And that help was waiting in the wings. In 1998 they turned the reins over to Suzanne and put themselves "out to pasture." | | 
Old Barn For Suzanne, living on the property fulfilled a dream she had since she was 13 years old. Recognized in the family for her great love of the land, she always pitched a tent and slept outside. In fact, she never spent a night inside the farmhouse until she became the innkeeper and started rising early to fix breakfast. The only reason she moved indoors was because she could never get any sleep. She was always listening to the owls, the fox and other wildlife. Cold weather played a bit of a role in that decision too! Now she lives and thrives in the Homestead with her calico cat Steinway and beautiful Springer "puppy" Chloe, doting on guests to ensure they have a delightful visit. 
Steinway and Chloe
Innkeepers' parents and former owners, Yvonne & Lyle Tweten
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