Stuntz Bay Boathouse Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Stuntz Bay Boathouse Historic District
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Some of the Stuntz Bay Boathouses on Lake Vermilion
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 Location in Minnesota
Location in the United States
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| Location | Northern end of Stuntz Bay Road, Breitung Township, Minnesota |
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| Area | 138 acres (56 ha) |
| Built | 1884 (compressor house), 1900–1955 (most boathouses) |
| Architect | Multiple |
| Architectural style | Vernacular |
| NRHP reference No. | 07000460 |
| Added to NRHP | May 24, 2007 |
The Stuntz Bay Boathouse Historic District is a special place in Breitung Township, Minnesota. It has 143 old boathouses right on the beautiful Lake Vermilion. Most of these boathouses were built a long time ago, between 1900 and 1955.
These boathouses were mostly built by people who worked at the nearby Soudan Iron Mine. The mining company gave land to its employees as a reward. This was for working there for many years. The miners then built their own boathouses.
They often used materials like tamarack logs. They also used scrap corrugated metal from the mine. Boating and fishing were popular hobbies for the miners and their families. The company even encouraged these fun activities. It was a nice benefit of the job.
The Stuntz Bay Boathouses were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. This means they are important for understanding local history. They show us what the miners' lives were like. They also show a special kind of building style.
What Makes This Place Special?
Most of the Stuntz Bay Boathouses are still owned by the same families. They are located inside what is now Soudan Underground Mine State Park.
Contributing Buildings
Out of 143 boathouses, 140 are called "contributing properties." This means they help tell the story of the historic district. Three boathouses were rebuilt recently. These are not considered "contributing" because they are too new.
Other Important Structures
Near the boathouses, you can see the old ruins of a compressor house. This building was used for the mine. It was built in 1884. It was taken down around 1930. Its ruins and smokestack are also part of the historic district.
There are three other important spots. One is a fishing dock at the far end of the boathouses. Another is a boat ramp from around 1940. Finally, there is a large rock that was a favorite fishing spot. It also served as a landmark for people.
