Higgins Building Sold, Set to Reopen as Historic Hotel
The historic Higgins Building, formerly known as the King’s Hotel, has recently been sold. Located at 114 Higgins Avenue in South Point Douglas, the sale took place on March 1, with the property valued at just under $900,000. The new owner plans to renovate the building, with intentions to reopen it as a hotel.
Historical Significance of the Higgins Building
The King’s Hotel, which has seen better days, was originally established in 1903 as the Richelieu Hotel. It served countless visitors to Winnipeg throughout its 123-year history. By 1940, it was renamed the King’s Hotel under Drewry’s Brewery ownership. This hotel is part of a broader narrative of small downtown hotels that emerged between the late 1890s and World War I.
Current State and Renovation Plans
- The hotel closed over a year ago, following a decline in business.
- It previously had licenses for retail beer vending, which were suspended in February 2024.
- Compliance orders for renovation permits had been outstanding since 2021.
- Renovation permits were finally issued in 2022, allowing for key upgrades.
Changing Landscape of Inner-City Hotels
The sale of the Higgins Building comes amid a troubling trend for older hotels in Winnipeg. Many have closed down, been repurposed, or, unfortunately, met their demise through fire after prolonged vacancy. Others have transitioned into single-room occupancy accommodations for low-income renters.
Comparative Properties in the Area
| Hotel Name | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Royal Hotel | 186 Higgins Ave. | Closed since August 2022 |
| Northern Hotel | 826 Main St. | Operational |
Keith Horn, owner of the Northern Hotel, reflects on the evolution of the hotel scene. He notes a decline in clientele, particularly among younger generations, which has contributed to changing business dynamics. Effective management remains crucial for the survival of such establishments.
Looking Ahead
As the Higgins Building embarks on its next chapter, it stands as a testament to the historical fabric of Winnipeg. Its transformation into a hotel could revitalize not only the building itself but also the surrounding neighborhood, breathing new life into an area steeped in history.
