THE END OF THE ALGONA HOTEL

A short time ago I happened upon some photos of the Algona Hotel as it was being torn down.  I vividly recall the iconic landmark on the west end of State Street.  It was a sad day indeed when it was torn down.  

THE HOTEL DURDALL

Originally known as the Hotel Durdall, it was built in 1899 by O.B. Durdall at a cost of $28,000.  The distinctive turret set at the top front of the three story building made it immediately recognizable and is seen in many photos taken of State Street during its life.  It was a real coup for a community the size of Algona to have such a grand facility and it was prominently featured in the book "Picturesque Algona" published in 1900. 

The main entrance to the hotel was on the north and there was a long lobby to the south.  The hotel counter was in a half circle.  There was also a newsstand, cigar stand, barber shop, baggage room and cloak room.  An entrance on the east was used mostly for entrance to the dining room.  The rotunda parlor on the second floor off the mezzanine was perfect for small private parties.  Many shops and businesses lined the outside of the building.  Over the years they included a Gambles store, taverns, restaurant, clothiers, specialty stores, and many others. 

GRAND OPENING

Four hundred people attended its grand opening on January 16, 1900.  According to an article published in the Emmetsburg Reporter it was a brilliant affair in every respect.  The article continued,

“On entering the hotel the hall widens into a large and spacious lobby, which is furnished in elegant shape.  A large and elegant dining room, with kitchen, closets, washrooms, cloakrooms, and office occupy the first floor.  These all have the latest modern improvements, and are lighted by electricity and gas.  But what strikes the person most forcibly is the guest chambers of which there are 50.  They are all large and spacious, with plenty of light so they present a bright and homelike appearance.  The carpets are rich and the furniture is strictly first-class.  In fact the hotel and the furnishings are elegant throughout and Algona can truly boast of having the best equipped and most modern hotel in northwestern Iowa.

        The opening was a brilliant one.  The Algona Harp orchestra discoursed sweet music throughout the entire evening.  The dining hall was tastily decorated with cut flowers, ferns and other foliage.  The refreshments were served in five courses, and were dainty and delicious.  The program was musical and literary, and was supplied by both foreign and home talent.  Its rendition was one of the most pleasant features of the evening.  After the rendition of the program a couple of hours were devoted to dancing.”

Fourteen of the actual 52 guest rooms were fitted with the latest conveniences.  All of the rooms had lace curtains and patent shades.  The hotel itself contained over 200 electric bulbs which kept it well lighted and there was steam heat in every room. 

An independent taxi service provided transportation to and from the railroad depot across town.  Gourmet foods served at the hotel were brought in by train as well.

The hotel was a popular place for many types of gatherings.  Many women’s luncheons occurred there over the years along with fraternal organization meetings, funeral dinners, and wedding receptions.  It was also a great location for dances and musical presentations.

THE END OF AN ERA

Never a financial success, the building had numerous owners over the years.  It eventually became part of the Boss Hotel chain and was re-named the Algona Hotel.  A group of local businessmen, Craig Smith, Charles McVay, M.H. Honsbruch and Richard Post, formed a corporation which purchased the hotel in 1961.  In 1970 it was sold to the Security Building Corporation which owned the Security State Bank located on the northeast corner of the same intersection.  Although the building of a new bank on the hotel corner was contemplated, it was eventually decided that it would be used as a parking lot.

The location as it looks today.

The building was razed in January of 1971 bringing down perhaps the most recognizable building in Algona.

Until next time,

Jean

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