Two historic properties in town, the Knight’s Inn and St. Francis Hotel, are poised for significant renovations following their recent acquisition by experienced developers.
According to City Planner/Code Enforcement Supervisor Kelly Mumper, the Knight’s Inn is under new ownership and has a demolition permit to gut the rooms of the old carpet, flooring, and furniture. You’re sure to have seen the commotion from Main Street as work is already underway.The new owner intends to rehab the hotel so that it offers nightly stays only and no extended stay options past 30 days.
Mumper says the next step will be to receive an engineering report from the new owner’s licensed engineer to determine what structural components of the entire site need to be repaired or upgraded. Code enforcement red-tagged the hotel months ago for its unsafe conditions.
The new owner intends to use a corporate brand for the hotel but hasn’t decided which one he’ll use yet. He has successful hotels in two other states, including a hotel at the base of Mount Rushmore.
The St. Francis was also purchased at the most recent tax sale by an individual who owns a company specializing in rehabbing historic structures and sites. In fact, he has successfully rehabbed over six million square feet of historic properties in his 15-year career. The city is scheduled to meet with the new owner next week to discuss securing the building for room demolition and rehabilitation.
Muper adds that the new owners intend to restore St. Francis to its former state, a multi-million-dollar endeavor.
As demolition begins on the Knight’s Inn and plans take shape for the St. Francis, these projects promise to revitalize key landmarks with a mix of modern amenities and historic charm.
St. Francis Hotel Image: https://digital.ucdavis.edu/collection/eastman/D-051/B-2/B-2026
Knight’s Inn Image: Stock photo
