The Historic Brandt House – A Landmark in Alma, KS
The Brandt House is a beautifully restored historic limestone hotel located in the heart of the Flint Hills. The property was built by Joseph and Christena Brandt because of an anticipated boom due to the Rock Island Railway. The couple designed the building as a two-story elle shape with 17 rooms. The Brandt Hotel opened in December 1887. The property was transferred to Joseph Brandt’s brother-in-law Jacob Horne in 1896. Jacob’s son, Louis and his wife Theresa moved into the hotel and became its operators shortly after their marriage in 1897...continued below
The Hornes renamed the property the Alma Hotel and it remained in their care until 1930 when Theresa sold the hotel to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Grunewald in 1935. In September 1935, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Gnadt bought the hotel and operated it until April 1941 when they sold it to Herman Uhlrig. Three years later, in 1944, Uhlrig sold to Eric M. Goebel. The Goebel family owned the hotel until 1962 when they sold to the Herbert Bute family.
The Butes owned the hotel until 1989. During this time, the hotel became well-known for its French restaurant. Have a look into the past in this video review of the fine dining offered there at the time.
The property changed hands several more times and along the way, operations ceased. The building sat empty for several decades though exterior restoration and repairs occurred, ensuring the structure remained sound.
Historical information and photos courtesy of Wabaunsee County Historical Society and Museum.
Today’s Vision
In November 2023 the Brandt House ownership group purchased the property and spent 2024 fully renovating the property. In February 2025 the hotel re-opened as a seven room boutique hotel, with additional offerings coming soon to the property.
The Brandt House is listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places and continues to be an iconic structure in downtown Alma.