Historic Hotel Nichols Added to National Register of Historic Places

The 140-year-old hotel in South Haven, Michigan is now officially recognized for its historical significance.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Historic Hotel Nichols in South Haven, Michigan has been added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as one of the community's most storied attractions. The hotel, which dates back to 1874 and has operated continuously since 1884, was recently purchased by the Whiteford family who have worked to restore the property and secure its historical designation.

Why it matters

The National Register listing opens up new grant opportunities for the Whitefords to further restore and preserve the historic hotel. It also helps attract more visitors to experience the hotel's rich history and architecture, which dates back over a century. As South Haven's oldest continuously operating hotel, the Nichols is an important part of the community's heritage.

The details

The Historic Hotel Nichols began in 1874 as a blacksmith and wagon shop, expanding over the years and adding a hotel in 1884. The buildings merged into the Nichols Hotel in 1925, and it has operated continuously since then. Current owners Scott and his family purchased the hotel in 2017 and have worked to restore its facade to its original 100-year-old appearance using a state grant secured through the historic designation.

  • The Historic Hotel Nichols was established in 1874.
  • The hotel portion of the property was added in 1884.
  • The buildings merged into the Nichols Hotel in 1925.
  • The Whiteford family purchased the hotel in 2017.
  • The hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2026.

The players

Historic Hotel Nichols

A 140-year-old hotel in South Haven, Michigan that has been continuously operating since 1884 and was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Scott Whiteford

The current owner of the Historic Hotel Nichols, who purchased the property in 2017 and has worked to restore its historic facade.

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What they’re saying

“We're very, very fortunate. We continue earning the title of the best hotel in South Haven, really for the last — I think there's seven years running now. So we're located right downtown across from the old movie theater. I always like to say when a guest comes to check in, they're not touching the keys for the rest of their trip because they get to walk everywhere they'd like to go downtown.”

— Scott Whiteford, Owner, Historic Hotel Nichols (wsjm.com)

“Me being a huge history nut, I just think it's the coolest thing ever. I haven't gotten a plaque yet, so I'm looking forward to that day. But at least being on the list really is, it just means a tremendous amount to myself and then my wife. And of course, our kids think it's super cool too.”

— Scott Whiteford, Owner, Historic Hotel Nichols (wsjm.com)

What’s next

The Whitefords plan to continue restoring the Historic Hotel Nichols and hope the property will remain in operation for another 100 years.

The takeaway

The Historic Hotel Nichols' addition to the National Register of Historic Places demonstrates how historic preservation can breathe new life into a community's most iconic buildings. By investing in the hotel's restoration, the Whiteford family is ensuring this piece of South Haven's heritage will be enjoyed by visitors for generations to come.