Faces of Duluth tells the stories of the people behind Duluth’s iconic attractions, hidden gems and everything in between. Traveling to Duluth? Learn the locals’ tips and tricks for seeing all the city has to offer.
When it comes to iconic Duluth landmarks, it’s hard not to think of Glensheen Mansion. Situated right on Great Lake Superior, this historical destination has been preserved for visitors to enjoy both inside and out – no matter the season.
We talked with Dustin Heckman, director at Glensheen, about what drew him to the mansion, and what continues to draw visitors year after year, especially during the holidays.
What is your Duluth story?
For many years, I had dreamed about moving to the North Shore, and a position at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior helped make it a reality. I started working in the area in November 2019 and moved up here on Black Friday. It was quite the day to move considering Duluth received about 20 inches of snow during that snowstorm!
What are your favorite things to do in the Duluth area?
I love strolling through Canal Park, as I enjoy being close to the lake and seeing ships come in. Basically, anywhere close to the water is on my favorites list! The Duluth Playhouse has a great lineup each year of performances to enjoy. This past spring, I discovered the Star of the North Theatre, located on the 3rd floor of Fitger’s. The intimacy of their performance space allows you to really feel the production.
What drew you to work at the Glensheen Mansion?
I had been an admirer of Glensheen for a few years. It had become one of my favorite places to visit when traveling to the Duluth area. All the work that had been put in by the team to transform Glensheen into a vibrant and fun place to be and make it into a community hotspot really spoke to me. And how can you beat an office on Lake Superior that has such amazing scenery in every season?
Tell us about the historical importance of Glensheen? How does it relate to today’s world?
Glensheen was the home of Chester and Clara Congdon. Chester was a lawyer with interests in mining and served in the Minnesota House of Representatives. The mansion was designed by renowned architect Clarence Johnston. Charles Leavitt served as the landscape architect. He was directed to preserve as much of the natural beauty as possible and to make the estate self-sufficient. Our region is known for its natural beauty and many visitors come to see that. In today’s world, many are striving to be more sustainable in design and actions. Glensheen can demonstrate how that would have looked in the early 20th century with a different set of values as it relates to sustainability.
In your opinion, what is the most magical spot in Glensheen during the holiday season?
The woods along Tischer Creek, no question! It just sparkles. I had the opportunity last year to be one of the first people on the estate after a storm, so I got out my snowshoes and went for a hike. Once I got to the woods, the snow hadn’t been disturbed at all and I felt like I had been transported into the middle of the forest. It was such an awesome experience.
Tell us about the Glensheen Mansion Christmas and Holiday tours. What can visitors expect?
Christmas at Glensheen is something everyone should experience! With 27 trees throughout the 39-room mansion, there is something for every guest to enjoy. Guests who have been to Glensheen during this season in the past will recognize a change in themes that has been inspired by the décor and colors of each room. It really makes a difference. This year, we brought back the elves hidden throughout the mansion along with the naughty elves. Guests really enjoy searching for them on the tour and it makes it exciting for families.
What special tours/events will be taking place over the holidays?
Our Christmas Candlelight Tours and Spirit of the Lights outdoor display will run every Friday and Saturday evening starting November 25 through December 31, 2022. We’ve added some bonus dates of December 22, 26, 27, 28, and 29 to allow those traveling to Duluth during the holidays an opportunity to bring friends and family to Glensheen. (Guests can pre-purchase tickets to these tours on our website.)
Our Meet the Makers series will be held the first three Saturdays in December from 1 to 4 p.m. Each week, we will host one of our local makers to talk about their products in our gift shop. Also, the first three Fridays and Saturdays in December, our friends from Bellisio’s will be selling chicken wild rice soup along with some holiday beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) from 4 to 8:30 p.m. to coincide with our evening offerings.
What are you most excited for visitors to see at Glensheen?
Compared to other large mansions of its time, Glensheen feels like you could live there. It has grand features, but it doesn’t come off as overbearing. Each season brings out something different as well. We have amazing gardens that come to life in the summer and fall. With so many wooded areas, the fall colors are vibrant and elegant. Take in a Concert on the Pier either by land or water. Snowshoe the grounds after a tour during the winter months. Glensheen has so much to offer that guests will find something different every time they visit.
Do you have any hints for the sneaky elf scavenger hunt?
Purchase an elf treasure book when you arrive! It’ll tell you how many elves are in each room (and give you some fun facts about each room as well).
What makes Duluth so special during the holidays?
Duluth is beautiful in any season but this time of year it just shines in spectacular ways. There are plenty of events and activities to take part in along with amazing local shops to visit. I feel like people in Duluth embrace the holiday season and want to make everyone feel at home when they visit.
What’s something people may be surprised to learn about Glensheen?
No detail was spared in its construction and design. A prime example that I like to point out are the pocket doors. To match the wood in the room or hallway that the door would face when closed, the pocket doors can look differently from each side.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Duluth is an amazing place to experience! Lake Superior has an attraction for people in many ways. Every season brings something special. Take the opportunity to experience it at different times of the year – it will leave you in awe!