This undated postcard shows the Willard Munger Inn circa 1970, when it was simply the “Willard Motel.” It is still in operation in Duluth’s Norton Park neighborhood.

Willard and Martha Munger bought the land at 7400 Grand Ave. in 1937 and opened a grocery store and gas station. The first units of what was originally called the Duluth Zoo Motel opened in 1954. At some point prior to 1962 the name was changed to the Willard Motel, and by the 1990s it became the Willard Munger Inn. Numerous additions and modifications have changed the look of the motel over the years. A 2024 photo appears below.

The caption on the back reads:

The Willard Motel
Across from beautiful Fairmount Park Zoo, the Willard Motel is a delight for tourists as well as commercial travelers. Featuring hot water heat, tiled showers, complimentary T.V., telephones, three room kitchenette apts., children’s playground, club room which seats 100, a fine cafe, and the lowest rates of any Duluth motel. 10 Brick Units.
7408 Grand Ave., Duluth, Minn.
Hi-way 23 | Phone 624-4814