The Historic Hygge Hotel sits on the corner of Main Street in Powers Lake, ND. “The hotel has such an interesting past, and I was just drawn to the history of the building,” said Lisa Thomas who purchased the building and has renovated it.
“The hotel was built in 1909 at the time the city was founded. They built it in a matter of months by hand." Lisa Thomas, Hygge Hotel owner
“The hotel was built in 1909 at the time the city was founded. They built it in a matter of months by hand,” explained Thomas. There was a lot going on in the town at that time, so the hotel thrived. It changed hands many times in the 20s. The hotel had people living there and businesses operating in the basement, including an accountant and even a doctor.
Thomas related, “The first baby ever born in Powers Lake was born in the hotel. Her name was Pearl.” In 1967 or 1969 (paperwork varies on the actual date), Father Nelson bought it. Father Nelson prevails as a legend in Powers Lake as many stories and theories exist about him. Thomas and fellow local business owner Fran Stewart told one story about a possible friendship between Nelson and Hitler. After Hitler’s suicide, a German woman came to Powers Lake with Father Nelson to work at the hotel as a cook. She was rarely seen or heard. Today in the Catholic cemetery northeast of Powers Lake, near Father Nelson’s grave, exists a tombstone with the name Eva Braun on it. The theory is that after Hitler’s suicide his girlfriend fled Germany to hide, and Father Nelson helped her. Historical documents contradict this theory, indicating that both Hitler and Braun were found in the bunker where they committed suicide. Twenty-five years after Father Nelson left the hotel, Thomas and her husband acquired the vacant building and began renovating.
The hotel is fully functioning with 6 rooms, each individualized for different tastes. Locals often rent rooms for birthday parties and other events. Powers Lake, located in the northwest corner of the state along highway 50, has a population of 293 people. The hotel is a highlight on the thriving main drag through town.
The hotel has a popular restaurant which also functions as a coffee shop complete with a drive-up window. Known for her special treats such as caramel rolls and popcorn balls, Thomas provides a full menu for breakfast and lunch. A daily special entices the locals as well as customers from the surrounding area.
“I love it here!” said returning patron, Lynn Russell. Russell first visited the hotel while on a ghost tour highlighted in the magazine Bakken Living. She has since returned 6 or 7 times to frequent the hotel. On this trip, Russell brought a friend to share the experience.
Thomas and her husband Kelly are currently working on turning the basement into a bar with another seating area. She visualizes the space as a perfect setting for parties. Currently, if a customer wants to use the venue for a bridal shower or class reunion, Thomas shuts down her regular business.
The funding to fix up the basement space came from a grant for main street initiatives Thomas received from the North Dakota Department of Commerce. The grant was 1 of 7 awarded in North Dakota. Thomas also wants to host a shop in the basement.
“I just wanted to give back,” said Thomas “I was given the opportunity to buy this building. I want other women and small businesses to have the same opportunity to promote their business. We don’t charge anything for [use of the venue]. I want to pass that kindness on to other people,” Thomas explained.
Fran Stewart, owner of Gifts-to-Go, said, “She is wonderful [for giving business owners this opportunity].”
Friday, a special event enticed the community to the Historic Hygge Hotel. Vendors from the surrounding area peddled their wares, and Thomas offered hot cocoa, cookies, and live music to the shoppers. The “Shop and Sip” event is one of many similar events offered throughout the year. Thomas also festively decorated the hotel for the Christmas season with a stunning display of lighted trees and decorations.
Thomas invites anybody passing by for a meal in the cozy restaurant or weekend getaway in the hotel. Call 701-464-7666 to make reservations. Located at 101 Railroad Ave. E, Powers Lake, the Historic Hygge Hotel offers many unique experiences for the surrounding community.
