I rescanned this photograph in hopes the new scanner features would be an improvement. I think it was a toss up. On the the other hand, newer readers might be interested about the Emerson Hotel, which would be later replaced by the Hotel Mt. Lassen.
In the late 1800s, one of Susanville’s prime property in its business district ,was the corner of Main and South Lassen Streets, that was never developed for its full potential. In June 1900, the Susanville business district consisting of south side of Main Street from Roop to Union Streets was wiped out by fire. It was a clean slate for rebuilding. Susanville entrepreneur, Charlie Emerson had a grandiose plan for the Main and Lassen Street location.
On July 31, 1900 groundbreaking ceremonies were held for the largest most expensive building to be constructed in town to date. It was Emerson’s three-story hotel, encompassing a quarter of a block on the corner of Main and Lassen Streets. Emerson invested some $300,000 to construct and furnish the brick building that contained 27,576 square feet. The ground floor was devoted to commercial and the upper two floors contained 76 guest rooms. A grand opening was held on June 3, 1901, and The Emerson became the town’s premiere social hub.