The Fowler Hotel was added to the National Register in September 2008, photograph from same year.
Located in Buffalo, Harding County, the Fowler Hotel is significant for its Commercial/Craftsman style of architecture in small town South Dakota and its role it played in the development of commerce in Buffalo. Buffalo was founded at the end of 1908 in anticipation of becoming the county seat for the county, which became official in 1911 when the courthouse was constructed. George and Minnie Fowler built the Fowler Hotel in 1936. The Fowlers owned many similar commercial buildings in the city as well. A devastating fire in 1935 destroyed several buildings in the business district, after the fire the Fowlers built the hotel on the corner lot where it stands today. Also located in the building was a coffee shop, meat market and dining room that served both travelers and townspeople.
Commercial style of architecture is identified generally by multiple stories with multiple bays, large windows and an entryway. Craftsman style of architecture, though primarily used for residential structures, was also incorporated in the hotel as well. The mixed architectural features found on the building represent the enhancement of the Commercial style with popular Craftsman features. The building is currently not in use.
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