Water Street Inn

History

The Lumber Exchange Building was constructed circa 1890 by Stillwater's lumber barons during the boom years of logging on the St. Croix River. The building was built by the Union Depot & Transfer Company (who also built Union Station, Stillwater's train depot in 1887 which is directly to the North) on the first modern business block in the city. It continued to be an important building in Stillwater for more than 100 years. Upon its debut in 1890, it was equipped with modern heating, plumbing, electricity, and even had an elevator, one of the first in the state.

Its early occupants included the famous and wealthy lumber merchants from the Stillwater area. The site features ten, large walk-in vaults, which were used to house the wealth of the rich lumber families. The first floor of the building contained storefronts, a post office, a barbershop, and an upscale saloon (where the Old Brogue Pub is now). The east side of the building was connected to the train depot by raised wooden platforms and a shed.

When lumbering declined around 1900-1910 the building became the home for lawyers, real estate offices, insurance firms, Chamber of Commerce and also latter-day lumber firms such as Consolidated Lumber Company, Inter-State Lumber Co., and American Railway Express Co.

In 1960 the Union Train Depot, a historic building consisting of stone and wood, was torn down by the Hooley family to make way for Hooley's grocery store. Later the Hooleys, forerunners of the Cub Foods chain, moved their offices to the Lumber Exchange Building and modernized both the exterior and interior with 1960's style architecture.

In March of 1994, three local Innkeepers worked closely with the Minnesota Historical Society and National Trust to restore the building's historical qualities. The cement block grocery store was quickly demolished and the hotel addition began. The Water Street Inn partially opened their doors to the public November 3, 1995. Grand Opening events were held the week of November 27, 1995.