From ghost towns to abandoned factories to run-down mills, Minnesota is home to more than a few mysterious ruins. But many of these are easily explained with just a quick search. There are a few ruins in Minnesota, however, that don't seem to have any logical explanation. These take just a little more research to uncover the truth of, but their stories are absolutely fascinating. One of the strangest ruins in Minnesota? Uncle Harvey's Mausoleum in Duluth.
Many who have spent time on the North Shore in Duluth knows about Uncle Harvey's Mausoleum — even if they don't know it by name.
It's a half-sunken building just off the shore near Duluth's Lakewalk. Its strange appearance has sparked many rumors. But how many know of its true origins?
It turns out, this strange relic dates back to the early 20th century during a construction boom in Duluth. Ships were in and out of the harbor at all hours, hauling gravel and sand to meet demands at other ports along the Great Lakes.
The concrete structure that still stands 30 feet off the shore today is what remains of Whitney's failed idea.
One man by the name of Harvey Whitney wanted to make things a little easier. He devised a system that would allow the gravel to be transported from shore to boat via conveyor belt.
While the idea did not work, Whitney's name still lives on in the ruin's name: Uncle Harvey's Mausoleum.
Swimmers often swim out to the ruins during the warmer months. They are good for jumping and relaxing under the sun.
Others walk out on the ice to catch a glimpse of the strange building's inside.
Even if you've never been out to it, you've likely noticed it if you've spent any time in Duluth.
Many have visited, but not many know that these strange ruins have a past that dates back nearly 100 years.
Did you know about Uncle Harvey's Mausoleum? Do you know about any other strange ruins in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments down below.
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