Guests at Minnesota’s oldest hotel could request a cuddly cat for the night
My husband and I stayed at the famous Anderson House Hotel in Wabasha, Minnesota a few years ago. The female tabby we chose spent most of the night cuddling with my husband. But I didn’t mind. The room was picturesque and the food at the restaurant was good.
Petside.com blog post from November 29, 2007:
Wanted: Friendly, Warm, Affectionate Ambassador for Minnesota Cat House
Arnold…How may I help you?
Okay…I know it’s a family website. But it’s not what you think. So shame on you!
Actually, The Historic Anderson House in Wabasha, Minnesota is, according to innkeeper Teresa Smith, the state’s only legal “cat house.” And for a very good reason. The staff of the 151 year-old bed-and-breakfast includes five friendly felines who, upon request, will come to your room evenings, warm your bed, and keep you company. What’s more, the hotel provides a litter box, toys, and food with each “kitty-to-go.” Most guests reserve a cat with their room, Smith says, and many put their dibs in early to ensure their favorite will be available. Poor souls with allergies can request a no-cat room.
A casualty of the Obamaconomy
I recently looked up the hotel’s website and was disappointed to find that the domain name was being “parked.” It turns out that the famous landmark hotel that had been established in 1856, had failed to survive the Obama administration. At least all of the cats who once provided companship for the guests still have homes.
Anderson House, Minnesota’s oldest hotel, closes
Last Update: March 23, 2009 – 7:19 PM
By: Kerry WestenbergA voice-mail message at the storied hotel in Wabasha starts out with a promising welcome.
Then comes a sigh, and these words, “We are sad to say that due to the bad economics that are going on, the Historic Anderson House has had to close its doors.”
Until it stopped operating Thursday, the Anderson House had been the longest running inn in the state. It was built in 1856 when Wabasha was a bustling Mississippi River town.
…
The building is on the National Register of Historic Places, but may be more famous for its collection of cats that guests could bring into their rooms for the night.
…
Fancher said that the more than dozen cats that resided at the hotel have been adopted by friends and former employees.
Also see:
- Strange Travels: Get a Cat with Your Room at Minnesota’s Anderson House
- Visit Americanaville: The Historic Anderson House in Wabasha, Minnesota
- Wikipedia: Historic Anderson House Hotel
Admin Note: We are sorry for the confusion, there was a scheduling error and this thread did not get its full time slot. Enjoy this thread before our infamous overnight madness.
