History of the Minnesuing Acres Lodge & Executive Retreat Center

Our lodge started out at as Curt Carlson's family getaway and the gathering place for Gold Bond Stamps sales meetings. Today, continuing the tradition, we still host many Carlson Companies events as well as outside groups. Click on the arrows for some historical snapshots.

A photo of the newly built main lodge in 1961. Curt’s vision is brought to life — Minnesuing Acres is born, primed to host many wonderful gatherings.

Curt (right), wife Arleen and other Carlson family members enjoy a leisurely horse ride on the Minnesuing Acres grounds.

A shot of the action at the Carlson family Christmas gathering at Minnesuing in 1962 – complete with carols sung by some younger family members.

The first Minnesuing Christmas tree (we're still not sure how Curt was able to keep it on the car while driving!).

A festive get-together with Carlson family members and dear friends – just one of countless memorable Minnesuing gatherings.

Gold Bond Stamps executives, sales representatives and office staff take a break from their productive Minnesuing meeting.

A good, old-fashioned Gold Bond Stamps sales rally from the early 1970s. Curt was a master at motivating people to "make it happen."

A 1977 (note the clothes) sales meeting in which the team lays out its ambitious 5-year plan for growth.

A handful of Gold Bond Stamps salesmen from the early 1960s take a break from a meeting by working in a relaxing game of pool.

Curt graciously welcomes President Nixon to Minnesuing Acres – one of many high-profile guests we’ve entertained through the years.

The King and Queen of Sweden made a memorable visit to Minnesuing Acres in the early 1970s – an event that many long-time employees still talk about.

Former Wisconsin Governor Knowles takes a ride on the "Curtsvagn" in 1966, flanked by Curt and other business VIPs.

"The home-cooked meals were wonderful and the meeting facilities were excellent. Even though we were 'up in the north woods,' we were still connected through our cell phones and high-speed Internet. We also enjoyed viewing the charming guest rooms, to see the different antiques and décor. We loved the property and look forward to future meetings!"

Peg Tschida, Business Events Manager, Land O’Lakes