Outside Developer Has Interest in Fallon Purchase

LOCK HAVEN –While a confessed arsonist has been reported trying to burn down the Fallon Hotel, an out-of-the-area developer has expressed an interest in purchasing the Lock Haven Water Street landmark which has fallen on hard times in the last decade or two.

Lock Haven City Manager Greg Wilson told therecord-online Tuesday he has had calls from two prospective developers inquiring about city permit requirements for an upgrade should a purchase be consummated. Wilson said the most recent inquiry came within the last two weeks. He said he did not know the identity of either party expressing interest. Wilson said should a purchase/restoration of the Fallon move forward, “it would be a phenomenal idea.”

Meanwhile therecord-online has learned that two local businessmen had “looked at” a possible purchase and restoration, but backed off given the scale and price of their ideas, first floor commercial space and condos with a view of the Susquehanna River on the upper floors. Meanwhile a second, out-of-town developer is reported still with an interest in a purchase.

The historic city landmark now shut down and without heat, was posted for sale in January by current owners Terry and Dolores Mantle of Jersey Shore. A realtor at the time called the once grand hotel “a great opportunity for the right person.”

The hotel was built in 1854, a $50,000 project funded by Queen Maria Christina of Spain, financing from proceeds from Spain’s sale of Florida to the United States. According to courthouse records, the Mantles purchased the Fallon in 1997 from Charles and Hazel Stevenson for $104,000. The asking price as of January of this year was $275,000.

The sale is listed “as is.” The building was emptied of its remaining few tenants at Christmas time after the boiler failed.

A Lock Haven man residing near the Fallon was arrested last week and charged with arson in two attempts to burn down the structure.