STANWOOD – The Stanwood Hotel &Tavern, a 19th-century landmark that has been closed for months, has new owners who hope to bring the establishment back to its heyday.
Leonard and Marilyn Guthrie bought the two-story building at 26926 102nd Drive NW in February, about eight months after it was first advertised for sale on eBay.
“My wife loved the building, so when it came up for sale … we decided to check it out,” Leonard Guthrie said. “It needs some attention, and it’s going to get that.”
The previous owners, Tami and Bob Anderson, decided to sell after the building’s structural problems became a daunting financial obstacle. Around the time it went on the market last summer, the city of Stanwood declared the old hotel portion of the building unfit for occupancy.
The Guthries, who recently moved from Camano Island to a house in north Stanwood, say it still could be months before the tavern reopens.
Leonard Guthrie, who owns a construction and development firm, said the building needs structural and general restoration work.
“It’s going to be a gradual process,” he said. “It’s a historical building, so we want to keep it looking somewhat the same both outside and inside.”
They also need to get the necessary licenses to reopen the bar. Once that happens, they hope to host regular entertainment again. Under the Andersons’ tenure, the Stanwood Hotel &Tavern gained a reputation as a place where up-and-coming bands could play. Leonard Guthrie said he plans to offer a “bit of music for everyone,” though hard rock might not be on menu very often.
The exact age of the Stanwood Hotel &Tavern is a bit of a mystery. County records indicate that it was built in 1894. But old newspapers refer to the business as far back as 1891, Tami Anderson said. Colorful rumors about its history, including its possible use as a brothel, surround the property.
When they first listed the Stanwood Hotel online, the Andersons and their real estate agent asked for $425,000. The building ended up selling for $350,000 in last month’s transaction, according to county records.
Reporter Eric Fetters: 425-339-3453 or fetters@heraldnet.com.
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