Port Townsend: Landmark Manresa Castle to be put on auction block

PORT TOWNSEND — In the market for your very own castle?

Lena Humber has one for you.

It has a stunning view of Port Townsend Bay and the Olympic Mountains, 40 guest rooms, 43 baths — and it’s rumored to be haunted.

Manresa Castle, the 112-year-old Port Townsend landmark at Seventh and Sheridan streets, will be placed on the auction block May 1.

Humber, of San Rafael, Calif., made the decision to sell the hotel and restaurant last week after 15 years of ownership.

It’s a tough decision, she said Thursday in a telephone interview.

“The staff is absolutely wonderful,” Humber said. “They’re absolutely the best people you can get, and that’s what makes this so hard.

“The day I sell it I’m going to cry.”

Registration for the auction begins at 2 p.m. at the castle. The auction starts at 4 p.m.

A professional auction house, National Auction Group Inc., is orchestrating the event.

Humber isn’t sure what the starting bid will be.

The Jefferson County Assessor’s Office has the building assessed at $1.9 million.

More in News

Dan Willis of Port Townsend, a docent at the Point Wilson Lighthouse at Fort Worden State Park, conducts a tour for interested visitors on Thursday. The lighthouse was built in 1878 when Congress approved $8,000 for the light and foghorns. Although the facility is still an active U.S. Coast Guard station, the equipment is monitored and operated remotely and no keepers are present. Regular tours on Saturdays and Sundays will resume in May. (Steve Mullensky/for Peninsula Daily News)
Lighthouse tour

Dan Willis of Port Townsend, a docent at the Point Wilson Lighthouse… Continue reading

EMT Teresa DeRousie, center, was recognized for her long service to Clallam County Fire District 2. Presenting the award were Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Denton, left, and Chief Jake Patterson. (Clallam County Fire District 2)
Clallam 2 Fire Rescue hosts awards banquet

Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue recognized career and volunteer members during… Continue reading

Construction set to begin on new marine life center in Port Angeles

Groundbreaking event scheduled for April 8 at Pebble Beach Park

A seal pops its head out of the water as a dory rower propels his craft in the calm waters of the Salish Sea. Whidbey Island is in the distance. Today’s high temperature is forecast to be in the low 50s with partly cloudy skies. Rain is set to return this weekend. (Steve Mullensky/for Peninsula Daily News)
Rowing on the Strait

A seal pops its head out of the water as a dory… Continue reading

Fire protection may impact insurance rates

New protection class considers nuanced data

The view looking south from Hurricane Ridge, where variable winter weather has limited snow coverage and contributed to pauses in snow sports operations in recent weeks. (Washington’s National Park Fund)
Lack of snow has impact at Hurricane Ridge

Water equivalent well below average for February

Port Angeles secures grant to aid in salmon recovery

State Department of Commerce to provide city with $109,000

Tickets still available for United Way of Clallam County fundraiser

Pajamas are encouraged, teddy bears are optional and comfort… Continue reading

Interviews set for hospital board

At least seven candidates up for commissioner seat

Port Angeles asks for fee to cover lodging tax contracts

Resolution sent to committee for administrative costs

Climate action group is guiding reduction goals

Reduced emmissions require reduced transportation footprint