Steam Boat Inn Comes Down

Big changes came Monday to the landscape at the entrance to Prescott. The property that many knew as the Steamboat Inn, and later, Cabana Jo’s fell under the wrecking ball as the unusual December rain fell much of the day. The property had been vacant for several years and continued to fall into disrepair prompting citizens and public officials to call for it’s removal. The Minnesota DNR had issues with removal of key stabilizing elements that could cause debris to fall into the river. An agreement was made late last month that assigned a procedure to safely remove the building, which had become an unwelcome sign to the entrance of the city. Future plans for the space are underway with owner Bob Campbell designing Vista Croix, a four level multi-use property that would include a restaurant, marina, hotel and residential complex to continue the history of Prescott’s connection with the St. Croix River. If you have a story or photo of your favorite memory of the Steamboat Inn, please share it on the KDWA Facebook page.