History
Aurora Staples Inn was built in 1892, during the Lumber Boom. This home was a gift from Isaac Staples to his youngest daughter Aurora & her husband, Adolphus Hospes, a civil war veteran, one of the six survivors from the Battle of Gettysburg. He was founder of the Last Man’s Club from Company B. Aurora & Adolphus had three children: Olivia, Louis & Eva.
One of Stillwater’s Pioneers, Isaac Staples, arrived in Stillwater in 1853. Legend has it that he stood over the bluffs of the St. Croix River over-looking the great white pine forest & exclaimed, “I can cut those trees down,” and he did. He had some help from Eastern investors. He went on to become a Lumber Barron & one of Minnesota’s first Millionaires. He was also involved in many enterprises such as banking, flour milling, saloons, steamboats, 3,000 acres of farms and even race horses!
The architecture is unique to the Boom Town Period which is seen in different types of wood used throughout the home. You will find bird’s eye maple, pine, oak, ornate inlaid flooring and wood carvings featuring Isaac Staples signature oak leaves and acorns around the fireplaces and doors. There are leaded glass windows, wood & coal burning fireplaces, pocket doors, a servant’s stair case. Originally, the kitchen was in the basement & the third level was a ballroom. A beautiful open staircase leads to four guest rooms. There are flower gardens in back and a Carriage House, which is renovated and made into a guest suite. The St. Croix Suite was Aurora’s bedroom until 1924, Her original dresser is still there and her bed is currently in the Gallery Room.
Our Inn offers a unique getaway experience with a balance of period décor, romantic ambience & modern amenities. All rooms have gas-fireplaces, jetted tubs, soft sheets, comfortable beds, A/C and televisions. We now offer a delicious breakfast to the Lowell Inn, Mon petit Cheri or Oasis Cafe.
We invite everyone to visit one of the oldest towns in America where you can enjoy: old buildings, shops, fine restaurants, Breweries, Award Winning Wineries, lunch & dinner cruises, kayaking, art galleries, wedding venues, gondola rides, Segway & trolley tours, biking & walking trails, cooking classes & parks. All with a great view of the St. Croix River. Stillwater hosts many events such as Lumber Jack Days, a 4th of July celebration with fireworks over the river, gondola races, art fairs, Oktoberfest, Ice Castles, hot air balloon rides and much more!
Stillwater is a great place for a weekend getaway! Be sure to check out our Inn.
We welcome you to have a unique experience in Stillwater!
Rachelle