Frank Gran Farmstead

Route 1, Bovey (no longer exists)

            Frank Gran was one of many Finnish immigrants who came to Itasca County between 1890 and 1940 to carve out a farmstead from the cutover areas left behind by the big loggers.

            Gran established one of the area’s more substantial farming operations and was well known for his dairy herd and potatoes. The farm consists of eight buildings, including a 2 ½ - story Queen Anne residence, dairy barn, milk house, and log bunkhouse. The farm’s charm is enhanced by the Swan River, which runs alongside the place.

Gran served as a county commissioner, and the town where he lived was unofficially named for him by his Finnish contemporaries. He sold the farm in 1946 and retired to California. It continues to be privately owned.