Member Spotlight: Sauerdough Lodging
Right in the heart of downtown, in one of the Seward’s most historic buildings, is Sauerdough Lodging. Offering nightly rentals year round, Sauerdough Lodging attracts visitors from all over the world.
“Sauerdough Lodging is located in one of the town's original buildings and has a fascinating history. We've combined this history with updated, modern apartments in an ideal downtown location,” said Meredith Hershock, who owns and operates Sauerdough Lodging with her husband Matt Hershock.
The historic building was completed in 1907 by William Sauers, just two years after the founding of the city of Seward.
“People would be surprised to learn the history of the building and what it takes to renovate and maintain,” Meredith said.
It originally served as a mercantile store, with its storefront transforming over the course of its fascinating, century-long history, while the upstairs served as a townhall style meeting center!
The Hershocks bought the historic building in 2005 and have been renovating, improving, and maintaining the location since. Currently, The Sea Bean Cafe can be found downstairs, with five apartments for rent at Sauerdough Lodging upstairs. Each of the apartments have been beautifully restored, with original hardwood floors, clawfoot tubs, original cabinetry, high ceiling and vintage kitchens (but modern appliances!).
Learn more about the Hershocks and Sauerdough Lodging below!
Q: Is there anything new or exciting that your business is offering? Tell us what you would want people to know about what's going on with your business!
We are open year round! We are also going to be offering lodging and adventure packages in the very near future.
Q: How long have you lived in Seward? What first brought you here?
We have been in Seward for almost 18 years. We moved to Seward so Matt could work on boats and eventually becoming a captain (which he did). We fell in love with the town and decided to stay.
Q: What do you like most about living and working in Seward?
We love the small town community aspect of Seward, and how the residents pull together to help people in need. We love meeting people from all over the world when they come visit our beautiful town.
Q: What makes your business special or unique? In other words, what are you known for?
Sauerdough Lodging is located in one of the town's original buildings and has a fascinating history. We've combined this history with updated, modern apartments in an ideal downtown location.
Q: Tell us about a product or service that you're particularly proud of.
We are proud of the amenities we offer our guests (in the summer)- we have a cafe downstairs that guests get daily vouchers to, we offer free gym access, and essential oils in every room.
Q: What is the best compliment your business has ever received?
"Hidden gem in Seward....with a fabulous cafe underneath with good food and the best espresso coffee in Seward. We loved our stay here!"
Q: Tell us about a community member in Seward who you admire.
Sarah Spanos- she is one of the friendliest, most caring people we've ever met, and we feel privileged to call her a friend.
Q: How do you spend your free time?
Most of our free time is spent with our kids, getting outside and hiking.
Q: Where's your favorite spot in Seward to unwind?
One of the many hiking trails in Seward, or down by the water.
Q: Describe a risk that you’ve taken in your business that paid off.
Switching from monthly rentals to nightly was a risk, but it was worth it.
Q: What advice would you give to a new business owner who is working to build a business like yours?
Don't give up!
Q: There are so many great wilderness areas to explore around Seward and Kenai Fjords and amazing opportunities for adventure or relaxation. If you had a free weekend, where would you go?
We would love to take a water taxi to one of the state park cabins.