Lighthouse Inn Supper Club: Iowa Time Machine August 14, 2024

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On August 14, 2024, the Lighthouse Inn Supper Club, a storied restaurant in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was tragically destroyed by a fire. Marking the end of a 112-year legacy as one of the oldest dining establishments in the state, the restaurant originally opened in 1912 at 6905 Mt. Vernon Road SE in Cedar Rapids. It grew to become the oldest supper club in Iowa.

The historic venue was renowned not only for its longevity but also for its colorful past, including connections to infamous Chicago gangsters like Al Capone and John Dillinger. During Prohibition, the Lighthouse Inn became a refuge for such figures seeking to “beat the heat.” Legend has it that Dillinger even accidentally discharged a gun inside the restaurant, leaving a hole in the wall that was later repaired. The son of actor Dom Ameche also ran the restaurant in the mid-1970s. These colorful stories added to the inn's mystique and drew visitors intrigued by its ties to both Iowa and national history.

Situated on what became part of the Lincoln Highway, one of America’s earliest transcontinental routes, the Lighthouse Inn benefited from a steady stream of travelers. This location turned the inn into a vital stop for motorists seeking a meal or overnight accommodations without paying city hotel taxes. Its nautical-themed décor, including a large wooden lighthouse visible from a distance, became an iconic landmark for locals and visitors alike, underscoring its status as a symbol of Cedar Rapids' hospitality and heritage. 

The fire was reported early on the morning of August 14, 2024, when a passerby noticed smoke and flames emanating from the roof. Fire crews from four Cedar Rapids stations responded immediately, but despite their swift efforts, the building was declared a total loss. Fortunately, no one was inside at the time, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remained under investigation but was later classified as undetermined, ending hopes of a clear explanation for the tragedy. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar