The Daniels family, co-founders of the Archer-Daniels-Midland Co., bought land on the south side of Gem Lake in 1929. The property extended east to what is now Gem Lake Golf Course. One of the hidden jewels of Gem Lake is the former Daniels estate, designed by renowned architect Edwin Lundie and built between 1930 and 1936.
Lundie was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in October 1886, and lived in North Dakota before settling in Minnesota and making his mark on the architectural world. He studied and worked with notable architects Thomas Holyoke and Emmanuel Masqueray. For more than five decades Lundie, who lived for a time in Mahtomedi, designed homes and cabins for his clients. He is most noted for his attention to detail and superb craftsmanship.
The Daniels project included the main house, the guesthouse, the service houses, staff living quarters, and a barn. Originally dubbed Worsted Skeynes, the estate was built for John W. and Amelia Daniels.
Sara Markoe-Hanson is the executive director of the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society. She is a monthly back-page contributor, highlighting the history of local communities.
