Nehalem River Inn: A Historic HOTEL Reborn in the Heart of Oregon's Coast

NEHALEM, Oregon — Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Tillamook County, just a stone's throw from the gentle embrace of the Nehalem River, the Nehalem River Inn has re-emerged as a beacon of history and hospitality.

Owned by the duo of Heather Newman and Chris Anderson, this boutique inn, with its rich heritage dating back to the 1930s, recently reopened its doors after an almost two-year transformation.

In December 2021, Newman and Anderson embarked on a journey to rescue the historic Nehalem River Inn, an architectural gem in the heart of Nehalem, Oregon, a small town just a few miles from Manzanita near Nehalem Bay State Park. The old building, which once housed a general store for community, has served multiple roles over the years, including a tavern, pub, fishing retreat, inn, and restaurant. However, after nearly a year of abandonment, it had started to fade into obscurity.

“We felt strongly that the building deserved to be saved,” said Newman. “Many of the old buildings along the coast are being lost. We sort of looked at each other and said, ‘Lets try to save this one.’”

Enter Newman and Anderson, who, along with their friend and retired Seattle architect and craftsman James Adams, dedicated themselves to the Herculean task of revitalizing this magnificent relic of Oregon's past. The trio painstakingly removed old drywall and insulation, resurrected sagging walls, replaced and repaired the exterior siding, and installed of new windows and doors. Their unwavering commitment to historical preservation was evident in every facet of the renovation.

“Old buildings are always interesting,” said Anderson, who once remodeled a 90-year-old three-story Masonic Lodge. “You start to open up walls and a story unfolds. Of course, when you start digging in, you find some things that need to be repaired or replaced. You can either cover them up or fix them. We decided to fix them. And that takes more time.”

The rejuvenation of Nehalem River Inn was not a solitary endeavor. A number of local businesses and skilled tradespeople rallied behind the project. J&J Electric, Cesars M+F Plumbing, Woodpecker Roofing, Nehalem Bay Hardwoods, Skywalker Drywall, Harv Bennett Construction, Barrera Painting, Ten Toes Tile, and the vast troves of building materials from nearby Stockton's Nehalem Lumber all played pivotal roles in reviving the inn. The result is a testament to the power of community and collaboration.

“We were fortunate to have a team of amazing folks working on the project,” said Newman. “All new plumbing — every inch of pipe, every drain. All new electrical — every wire, every plug. A new roof. New exterior decks. Refinished floors. Every piece of drywall. Every bit of insulation. A hundred years of old smells are gone. It’s all new. These are jobs that require expertise and experience. We’re so thankful for everyone who was involved in reviving the old place.”

Fast forward to today, approximately 22 months after the journey began, the Nehalem River Inn stands as a phoenix risen from the ashes. With the final permits secured from Tillamook County, the hotel now boasts six enchanting rooms, each a unique testament to the charm of its bygone era. Visitors will find themselves enveloped in an atmosphere of nostalgia, with modern comfort seamlessly intertwined with the historical charm that defines the building.

Newman and Anderson bring their considerable experience in the hospitality industry to the project, having been former owners of the esteemed Inn at Arch Cape. However, their latest venture holds a special place in their hearts, not just for the promise of success but for the deep reverence they share for the building's historical significance.

The hotel’s history is a captivating tale, closely intertwined with the evolving narrative of Nehalem and Mohler, the smallest unincorporated area in Tillamook County. The general store served as a vital hub for the community for almost a century. Later, as it transformed into a tavern, pub, and inn, it continued to be a cherished gathering place for locals and travelers alike. Through its varied incarnations, the building remained a constant in the lives of those who called this corner of Oregon home.

As Newman and Anderson take their first steps as custodians of this piece of history, they are keenly aware of the responsibilities that come with the role. They are committed to preserving the inn's rich heritage while providing a haven for modern travelers seeking a tranquil retreat along the Oregon Coast. With its new lease on life, the Nehalem River Inn offers guests an opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the captivating history of the region.

The reopening of the Nehalem River Inn is more than just a new chapter in the story of Oregon's Coast; it’s a celebration of history, community, and a profound appreciation for the past. As travelers discover the charm of this enchanting boutique inn, they, too, will become a part of the ongoing story of Nehalem, Oregon — a story that continues to be written with each passing day.

In a world that’s constantly evolving, the Nehalem River Inn stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of historic preservation and the indomitable spirit of those who take it upon themselves to breathe new life into the cherished relics of the past.