St. Louis County jail open for filmmakers
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
The owner of the former St. Louis County jail has a new idea for repurposing the building that's been vacant for 18 years: allow artists to use it for film shoots.
Developer Grant Carlson is inviting filmmakers and musicians to the jail on June 1 as part of the Duluth Superior Film Festival. The hope is that they'll be inspired to use the space in their work. Carlson told the Duluth News Tribune he envisions all types of film projects in the space.
"The biggest assets are the jail cells," Carlson said, adding that the stark amenities haven't changed much since it was built in 1924.
The idea came up after Carlson and festival supporters began talking about having a party at the jail during the film fest. Soon, the discussion turned toward a reception with the goal of urging filmmakers to consider the site.
Support Local News
When breaking news happens, MPR News provides the context you need. Help us meet the significant demands of these newsgathering efforts.
Festival producer Rick Hansen said any filmmaker who wants to use a real jail has to go through a lengthy permit process. The former jail would be an easier option.
The five-story jail once housed up to 200 inmates. It was scheduled to be torn down before area historians got involved, and Carlson bought the jail in 2010 for $54,000.
Since then, he's had several ideas for repurposing it, including office space and living space. He said in March that part of the plan could include artist space.
The Preservation Alliance of Minnesota had named it one of Minnesota's most endangered historic places.