Hotel Janzen, former railroad motel
Hotel Janzen is a Victorian building in Michigan featuring decorative trim, large windows, and a sturdy exterior structure. The structure originally contained about 34 rooms and was equipped with modern conveniences like running hot and cold water throughout.
The building was designed around 1890 by architects Lovejoy and Demar and stood near the train depot, making it convenient for traveling visitors. After facing safety standard issues in the 1970s and a fire in 1983, it was purchased in 1984 by a restoration group and converted into a nonprofit residential facility.
The building takes its name from its original builder and stands as a Victorian landmark in the community. Its rooms with large windows and detailed woodwork reveal how people once lived and traveled through the area.
The building is located near the train depot and remains relatively accessible, though the surrounding area is quiet. Visitors should know this is primarily a residential facility, so tours or visits may be limited and should be arranged ahead of time.
The building was converted in 1984 into a residential facility and now operates as a nonprofit shelter after being saved by a preservation movement. Since that conversion, the facility has provided over 300,000 nights of shelter for people in need.
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