Thomsonite Inn is unique in that it sits on a section of Lake Superior’s shoreline that features “Minnesota’s Gemstone”, Thomsonite. Thomsonite is a rare mineral which was first discovered on the North Shore in 1879.

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During the turn of the century, Hans Bernard Larsen, a Norwegian immigrant who came to Grand Marais in 1888, sold Thomsonite in a summer tent along Good Harbor Bay. By 1924, the American Exploration Company owned much of the Thomsonite laden property.

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In 1942, Harlow Tyschen bought Lake Superior shoreline and began to mine Thomsonite. He sold his property in 1974 to Anita and Jack Brust and formed Tybrus Gems to mine the stones. Some of their prize gemstones are on display today at Thomsonite Inn Guest Services.

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Maurice and Tania Feigal bought 500 feet of shoreline to build Thomsonite Beach Resort in 1961, where they mined and sold Thomsonite jewelry until 1998. For 36 years they were well known to North Shore visitors for their passion as “rockhounds” and lapidary experts. They loved to share their knowledge, make beautiful silver or gold jewelry while offering lakeside accommodations which soon became treasured memories shared by generations of guests.

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The Feigal’s sold the resort in 1998 to Matt and Vicki Geretschlaeger who operated it until November of 1999. It was then purchased by Lee and Scott Bergstrom. Lee is a North Shore native and is the granddaughter of Isak Hansen. Lee and Scott owned the resort for 22 years and took immaculate care of the property. They welcomed hundreds of guests and treated them like family. In 2021, Thomsonite Inn sold to Joe Swanson, another North Shore native from Silver Bay.

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We welcome your visit and look forward to helping you create memories and share with you our favorite spots on the North Shore. We will provide you with clean, cozy, and comfortable accommodations, a restful atmosphere.