THE HERRING HOTEL 

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Due to the dedication of William Palmer Herring, his Herring Hotel was known to travelers all along the Lincoln Highway, as well as around the world. One who stayed at the Herring would experience the  most comfortable accommodations and above average service. It has been said that "Bill" Herring remembered the name of every one of his guest. And when they paid him a return visit he would welcome them by name.  Those traveling the Lincoln Highway throughout the Midwest would opt to drive a little farther to Belle Plaine because of that service, as well as an indoor garage in which they could pull in, park, and stay the night without worry.   For train travelers the hotel was only two blocks from the depot.  Mr. Herring would pick up guests and transport them to the hotel in his custom "bus".

 

The Herring Hotel hosted it's grand opening on May 4,1900. This two story colonial style cottage was designed by Cedar Rapids architect, Charles A. Dieman.  After an early morning fire destroyed the attic and roof in February, 1914, a full third story was then added to the property.  More guest rooms were added to accommodate the growing business, and rooms were rearranged in order to host private baths.  In 1919 Herring added a service station to further accommodate travelers.  Later on the service station was revamped and additions were added to hold Herring's son Edward's car dealership.  By 1927 the indoor garage could house up to thirty autos.  In the mid twentieth century the hotel was home to a Greyhound bus line station. The Herring was an official Hotel of The American Motor League, and home to the Lincoln Highway Glad Hand Club.

 

After the passing of Will Herring in 1937, the hotel remained under the management of James Herring, the youngest Herring son, through 1953 and the ownership of the Herring family until 1960.