Kalama Hotel

Have you ever seen a building walk? Well, this one did … in a sense. Renowned as the “Walking Building,” the Kalama Hotel experienced relocation not once but three times throughout its existence in the town. Initially established on Fir Street, it was among several hotels that graced the area during the pivotal construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Serving as a crucial stop along the railway, Kalama thrived with the presence of railroad workers who sought respite after tirelessly laying tracks through challenging landscapes. The hotel provided not only affordable accommodations and hearty meals but also a sense of community, making it a favored spot for the early laborers who were instrumental in driving the railroad’s expansion westward. Eventually, it was relocated to the north side of Kalama, elevated on logs, and rolled down the road, with horses pulling it along.