Photo by Jennifer Browning The hidden boiler room of the old Athens Hotel .
ceiling was exposed .
As they continued the demolition into Unit 2 , the ceiling tile extended into a space where they didn ’ t realize it even existed . Co-owner Marci says that as they began demo in this unit , it reaffirmed to them “ how the spaces are really gonna be neat for the right business .” One of the biggest reveals so far came when the demolition of Unit 3 began . As they scraped , hidden under plaster for almost 80 years , the exterior brick wall from the J . A . Murchison General Store became exposed . Now nicknamed the “ Coca-Cola Unit ,” the ghost wall sits ready to be viewed again , complementing the original shiplap wall across from it . Although some doors had previously been cut through the brick , the large portion of what remains of the sign is in almost perfect condition .
Co-owners Boog and Carey consider Unit 4 to be their favorite because of
Photo by Jennifer Browning
Prairieville Row Owners standing in front of the inner “ ghost ” wall . From left to right : Flo Ferrell , Boog Ferrell , Carey Peach , Marci Peach
Photo by Jennifer Browning Hotel Cashier counter greeted guests in the old hotel — perhaps even Bonnie and Clyde .
the architecture of the exposed rafters and arched openings that make the space unique . This room has potential for a side entrance , as it used to be the laundry room for the hotel . The most interesting feature of this unit is that it overlooks the boiler room from the old Athens Hotel .
The boiler room was another area that was rumored to exist , but until demolition began , was not entirely revealed . Some locals recall working in this building and never knowing the boiler room was there hidden behind a tiny door . The owners do have plans to showcase the boiler room in its historical state . The Athens Hotel is the final unit in Prairieville Row Properties . The Peaches have a background in hospitality and are owners of an inn in Breckenridge , CO . Marci has some incredible ideas for the re-opening of the hotel that will keep the integrity of the 12 rooms that are currently located on the second floor , like the transom windows above the doors , while adding some modern comforts .
The original Athens Inn was built around 1912 , but was partially burned on August 12 , 1937 . When it reopened as the Athens Hotel , the three story building
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