The Historic Hotel Nichols in South Haven is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its stature as one of the community’s most storied attractions.
The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office says the Nichols has now officially been deemed worthy of preservation for its historical significance, opening the way for new grant opportunities and attracting new visitors.
Scott Whiteford and his family have owned the hotel at 201 Center Street since 2017. He tells us the property began in 1874 as a blacksmith and wagon shop, expanding over the years and adding a hotel in 1884. The buildings merged into the Nichols Hotel in 1925, and to this day, it still hosts travelers.
“We’re very, very fortunate,” Whiteford said. “We continue earning the title of the best hotel in South Haven, really for the last — I think there’s seven years running now. So we’re located right downtown across from the old movie theater. I always like to say when a guest comes to check in, they’re not touching the keys for the rest of their trip because they get to walk everywhere they’d like to go downtown.”
Whiteford sought out the national register listing, telling us it feels great to achieve.
“Me being a huge history nut, I just think it’s the coolest thing ever. I haven’t gotten a plaque yet, so I’m looking forward to that day. But at least being on the list really is, it just means a tremendous amount to myself and then my wife. And of course, our kids think it’s super cool too.”
Whiteford says with the hotel now officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, he’s been able to secure a state grant to restore the facade, which now looks exactly as it did 100 years ago.
Whiteford calls the Nichols a “cool piece of the community” that he hopes will stay in business for another 100 years.
