BATTLE LAKE, Minn. — Restaurants are frequently the heartbeat of communities in Minnesota's lake country, places that draw both locals and visitors to eat, drink, and catch up.
For 55 years, Stub's has served that role in Battle Lake, a long run that may be over following a raging fire Monday night.
Battle Lake Police Chief Eric Dison says he and a handful of units from the Battle Lake FD responded just before 9:30 p.m. on reports of smoke billowing from the roof of Stub's Dining & Gunpowder Bar, and it was clear more help would be needed. Battle Lake firefighters quickly requested a ladder truck from nearby Fergus Falls, and then another from Perham as flames began leaping through the roof.
Eventually, units from seven communities outside Battle Lake arrived with engines and crews to battle the blaze. Dison says water was sourced both from the city's municipal system and Battle Lake itself using portable pumps. The police chief was impressed at the coordination of resources and manpower during the firefight.
"This one couldn't have gone any better," Dilson said.
While it's not official, Dilson believes the building will be declared a total loss due to the collapse of the ceiling and extensive fire and water damage. He says the State Fire Marshal's Office is on scene working with Battle Lake investigators to determine how the fire started.
The business was closed Monday night, which is common for bars and restaurants in lake country so owners and staff get at least one day off.
Stub's website says the bar-restaurant was born In 1968 when Stub Digre put $100 down on an farming implement dealership that had closed and started laying out his plans for a supper club. After a total remodel and the installation of kitchen equipment, Stub’s Dining Hall & Saloon officially opened its doors in August of 1969.
As the business changed hands and evolved, Stub's added an event space and a piano bar, billing it as "Second Best Restaurant in Minnesota."
