08/31/2026
A home once declared “the handsomest edifice in Fillmore County,” has a rich history in the lives of Spring Valley residents. Built in 1879 on North Huron Avenue by banker-businessman William Strong, it remains one of the outstanding residences in Spring Valley.
In 1877, Strong, and partners Farmer and Edwards, bought the private bank of Farmer and Easton, established in 1872, and in 1899, built the First State Bank building on the corner of Broadway and Courtland. The bank survived the panic of 1894 and remained a strong and steadfast influence in the community for 40 years.
The home on Huron Avenue, crowned with a mansard roof with wrought iron trim, features elegant amenities not found in more modest dwellings. On the grounds were found several barns and outbuildings, as well as a racetrack. The tornado of 1894, which leveled much of northwest Spring Valley brought serious damage to the house. Repairs were undertaken and the refurbished home was occupied until 1945 by three generations of the Strong family.
Don Henderson owned the house from 1947 to 1950, at which time he opened the door as the “66 Motel,” as seen in this photo. The Torgesons operated it as the Valley Rest Home in the 1950s. Bob and Jeannine Chase bought the property in 1969 and restored its original elegance, living in one section and reopening the doors as a bed and breakfast venture.
The home still proudly stands currently, but as a privately owned residence.
