Emergence crimson convergence. Firefighters from nine communities block narrow Highway 35 through Alma to save the hotel and also closely packed other historic structures.
Blaze started behind kitchen wall
ALMA, Wis. – Fire damaged the first floor of the historic Alma Hotel. Crews from nine fire departments contained the blaze before it spread further. Black smoke was spotted about 1:20 p.m. from a kitchen wall behind the stove. Although the fire was stopped before destroying the 169-year-old 2-1/2 story frame structure, the owners immediately announced that it will be closed for repairs, including the bar and restaurant.
Mutual aid
These fire departments responded to the fire: Alma, Durand, Fountain City, Mondovi, Nelson, Tri-Community, Wabasha, Waumandee-Montana-Lincoln.
Alma Hotel profile
The hotel was built in 1853 as a stop-over for Mississippi River steamboat travelers and rural Buffalo County people coming to town for supplies. In 1886 when the Burlington Railroad began Chicago-to-Twin Cities trains on its new “river route,” the hotel became an option for rail travelers. The hotel has been through slack times off and on but never closed. New ownership in 2015 began continuing renovations. The bar area was transformed into what was called the Union House Bar. The main dining room was redesigned. Hotel rooms upstairs were renovated.
Early days arrival at Alma Hotel. As soon as Ol’ Bess and Nellie are unhitched, they’ll be stabled just down the street for the night.