Over a year ago, in November 2020, the Archer House River Inn in Northfield was destroyed by fire.
(photo by cb)
This month, it has finally been taken down. It took over a year to set things in motion to dissemble this historic inn that was on the National Register of Historic Places. It took a few weeks for the demolition to be complete.
It was a sad sight to see on a daily basis in Northfield’s downtown. The area is now cleared out, but a “hole” remains on Division Street (the main street), and in resident’s hearts. What will replace the beloved hotel remains to be determined.
It’s so difficult to see this iconic landmark now totally gone. I have yet to see the empty space. I expect developers will be historically thoughtful in replacing the Archer House with something fitting downtown Northfield’s character and heart.
I do believe the developers will keep the heart of Northfield in their planning and design of the new space.
I wonder how long it will take?
I drove by this site last week when I was in Northfield. Even though it’s been 10 years since I lived there, it broke my heart to see the rubble where the grand Archer House used to stand. I do hope who ever builds in that space will keep the beautiful icon in mind!
Can it be 10 years already, since you moved away?
It was a grand building and it was hard to see the ruins.
I’m glad that part is complete.