When Elav Ericsson...
spied the property at 1205 Como Blvd. in 1915 he knew at once that this was the spot to build and start a family. Off in the distance he could hear the clatter of the streetcar which stopped just down the hill. Just beyond that the builders were putting the finishing touches on the grand Como Park Conservatory with its 20,000 panes of glass. The area around Como Lake was being developed as a park as part of the green space movement of the early 20th century.
It was a perfect location to build the family home that was later to become the Como Lake Bed & Breakfast.
Mr. Ericsson was a business owner and operated the Eden Valley creamery which was located a few blocks away on Lexington Parkway. He and his wife had two children, a daughter and son. The first wedding celebrated at 1205 Como Blvd. was Elav's daughter's. Lillian got married in what is now called the Inglenook room, a sitting area by the fireplace at the base of the grand stairs. We've toasted many more brides and bridegrooms here since.
Elav Ericsson built the 2 story frame dwelling at 1205 W. Como Blvd at a cost of $6,000.
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In 1915 construction is underway at 1205 W. Como Blvd. in Saint Paul.
St. Paul Streetcars load passengers at the Como Park Stop.
Como Park Conservatory 1915
Workers pose for a picture as the project nears completion.
Mrs. Ericsson plays the piano as her husband and baby rest.
The baby grand piano at the Como Lake B&B is placed in the same spot.
The Inglenook Room. Elav Ericsson's daughter Lillian was married here. Note the family photos on the mantle and the old telephone on the writing desk.
Here's a view of the Como Lake B&B dining room. taken in the 1940's. Note the high wainscoting.
It looks almost the same today except for the modern light fixtures.
The Staircase view. This picture was taken from front door. Note the advanced technique of incorporating a foreground object in the photo.
Como Park , Early 1900's Pergola designed by Cass Gilbert
Taking a stroll down the new marble staircase . This spot is often used today to photograph wedding parties.
The fireplace continued to be a gather ing place at 1205. Here are Carla's children playing by the Christmas tree in the 1990's.
MN Bed & Breakfast Association Stamp of Approval
