Thorhild County says goodbye to Radway Hotel

By Brandie Majeau
With a heavy and reflective heart, October 21, 2025, marked the Radway Hotel’s
demolition. For many years, residents witnessed the slow and sorrowful decline of this
once-grand structure, its walls crumbling and its spirit fading away. The announcement
from Thorhild County regarding the Notice of Demolition brought a bittersweet closure to
a chapter steeped in both history and nostalgia. Now, as the dust settles, everyone will
remember the stories and memories that lingered within the old hotel’s walls, forever
etched in the hearts of those who cherished its presence.
Deteriorating buildings often need to be torn down for several reasons, including
safety concerns, modernization needs, and urban development. Over time, structures
can worsen, becoming unstable or hazardous. In many cases, these older buildings
may not meet current safety codes or may require extensive repairs that are cost
prohibitive. Although it is a necessity, it is often hard to watch as a community staple is
torn apart.
The tearing down of these buildings can evoke a deep sense of sadness among
many people. Old buildings often hold significant historical, cultural, and emotional
value. They can be reminders of a city’s heritage or the stories of those who lived and
worked in them. For some, these structures represent a connection to their past, serving
as physical embodiments of memories or experiences tied to specific places.
When a beloved old building is demolished, it can feel like a loss of identity for a
community. The memories associated with it—family gatherings, community events, or
even just the daily routine of passing by—are disrupted. This sense of nostalgia can
create a profound emotional response, as people mourn not just the physical structure
but what it represented in their lives and communities.
Over the last few weeks, many have reminisced about their memories when the
final owners ran the hotel. It served up amazing food, mouthwatering soups and
desserts, a large and remarkable selection of traditional and unique martinis…and
warmth. The owners greeted everyone with smiles and most by name. So many
residents of Thorhild County and beyond will fondly remember all the laughter and
shared meals and cheered drinks at Radway Hotel.