KEWAUNEE, WI—The Kewaunee Inn on Lake Michigan here is on the market and set to be auctioned off on Feb. 28 as part of Micoley.com’s Q1 2015 auction event.
The building was constructed in the early 20th century after a fire burned down the original hotel. It opened on Valentine’s Day 1913, and has stood ever since.
Originally called Hotel Karsten after its owner William Karsten, Sr., the hotel operated under the Karsten family until 1964. It remained vacant for two years and, in 1966, the hotel’s new ownership remodeled the property. According to the hotel, the remodel coincided with the beginning of the alleged hauntings of three ghosts: Agatha, a housekeeper; William Karsten, Sr.; and his grandson Billy.
In 1991, the hotel was sold to new owners, who restored the original 1913 look with a $750,000 remodel. The remodel included a reconstructed reception desk, Victorian decor, grand lobby, elegantly carved staircase, historical Tap Bar with stained glass, and rooms with modern conveniences, according to the hotel. The hotel sold again in 1996 and, by this time, the Karsten Inn had a new name: the Kewaunee Inn. Today, the hotel has 23 rooms.
The property is listed at $795,000 with an opening bid of $475,000 if no offer is received by the date of the Feb. 28 auction. The sellers of this property have indicated that they plan to entertain early bids and offers.