Hickman’s historic LaClede purchased

A breath of fresh air is coming to Hickman with the opening of the LaClede Hotel in downtown district. The LaClede was constructed in 1898 and has prominent keyhole entrances. It was the major hotel facility in Hickman during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Antti Williams has seen the building since he was a child and always thought it was a very striking building. Williams saw the building was for sale, had the money and bought it, figures he can make it look nice again.

Williams’ plans for the building include a Bed and Breakfast, and eventually a space for events like weddings, graduations, etc.

“If anyone has any stories or photos of the building, they would be nice to have to start a collection,” stated Williams.

His plans are to keep the building as original as possible.

Williams is the son of Steve Williams of Hickman, and grew up in Finland with his parents.

Steve Williams remembers bringing Antti to Hickman to visit family and showing him different sites.

“As far as I know Hickman does not have a Bed and Breakfast, and having this old building is better than having something new. The building adds character,” stated the elder Williams.

“Antti called me up and said ‘I’m going to buy the building’,” continued Williams.

Antti Williams is currently living in Tampa, Fla. and plans to move to Hickman and stay at the LaClede while it is being renovated. They are planning on renting the storefronts and have the Bed and Breakfast open by the holidays of 2019.

Renovations will start in October.