I recently saw that the Historic Balch Hotel is operating again. I noticed it last year while showing property in Dufur. It looked mostly empty and like it needed work. I learned that it sold in the summer of 2006 and the new owners have revived it. It is listed on the National Historic Registry.
The Balch Hotel was built in 1907 by Charles P. Balch who was a local rancher and druggist. Mr. Balch owned approximately 1,600 acres adjoining Dufur. The bricks used were made on his ranch. The Balch Hotel opened January 17, 1908 (a 100 year anniversary celebration is planned for next January!). Back then rooms cost $0.50 to $1.25, and even had "hot and cold water in every room, electric lights and steam heat." The 18-inch-thick brick walls keep the building cool during the hot Dufur summers.
Amy McAllister Realty LLC 541-490-1436
Hood River, Oregon amym@gorge.net
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