St. James Hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places
The St. James Hotel is a brick building in Renaissance Revival style located on Main Street in Red Wing and has served as lodging since 1875. It contains approximately 62 rooms, many named after riverboats, and blends historic features such as tall, narrow windows with modern conveniences.
Built in 1874 and opening on Thanksgiving Day 1875, the hotel was created to serve merchants and visitors during Red Wing's prosperous wheat trading era. It hosted notable guests including President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878 and served as headquarters for national ski jumping championships in 1928 and 1936.
The hotel's name reflects the religious heritage of its founders and the values of the era. It served for over a century as a gathering place where locals and travelers mixed, making it a social anchor in the community.
Located on Main Street, the hotel offers easy access to nearby shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks throughout downtown. Guests can choose from differently appointed rooms and enjoy dining at Scarlet Kitchen & Bar with river views, or visit The Port, a historic bar located in the basement level.
Many rooms are named after riverboats that once traveled up and down the Mississippi, reflecting the hotel's deep connection to river commerce and travel. These details preserve how the property was woven into the region's transportation history.
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