Riggins in Idaho County, Idaho — The American West (Mountains)
Riggins' Early Hotels
Hotel Riggins and the Monte Carlo
— Salmon River Heritage Waking Tour —
The Road to Hi-Wa-Inn
In 1902, Dick Riggins sold the hotel and post office to Dick and Leona Irwin. In 1910, the Irwins sold the hotel to Helen Toney and moved the post office to a store across the street.
In 1912, Mrs Toney remodeled the hotel and renamed it the Hi-Wa-Inn. The inviting Hi-Wa-Inn, surrounded by shade trees and cool lawn, was a welcome site to weary travelers for many years. The ringing of the big iron triangle was a unique part of Riggins early life as it announced the meals, served promptly at seven, noon, and six at night.
The Monte Carlo (photo to the left)
Riggins second hotel was built in 1925. This elegant, two-story white structure was the work of Roy Gardon. Built at the corner of Berger Street, it sported a pool hall, card room and a saloon. An outside staircase led to rooms for rent on the upper floor.
The Monte Carlo was located across from Helen Toney’s Hi-Wa-Inn. Some of the locals jokingly suggested that Roy call his hotel the “Lo-Wa-Out.”
After fire destroyed this hotel about 1934, Beth Gordon built several rental cabins which are still in use today.
Erected by City of Riggins.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Postal Mail and Philately series list.
Location. 45° 25.278′ N, 116° 18.942′ W. Marker is in Riggins, Idaho, in Idaho County. Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (U.S. 95) and Berger Street, on the left when traveling north on Main Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 106 Main Street, Riggins ID 83549, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Clay's Swinging Bridge (within shouting distance of this marker); Riggins in the 1940s (within shouting distance of this marker); Early Businesses (within shouting distance of this marker); The Forest Service (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Evolution of a River Terrace (about 300 feet away); Gouge-Eye Legend (about 400 feet away); You’ve Got Mail (about 500 feet away); Educating Riggins' Children (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Riggins.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 29, 2018. It was originally submitted on June 29, 2018, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 215 times since then and 24 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 29, 2018, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.