Sonoma Firefighters Say Old El Verano Resort Destroyed By Fire

SONOMA (KCBS) – A long-vacant old Sonoma Valley resort, constructed more than a century ago, was destroyed by fire Thursday.

The fire at Paul’s Resort, across from Maxwell Farms Regional Park, broke out around 2:30 a.m., according to fire officials.

The 11-room resort was a remnant from a time when San Franciscans and other city dwellers sought out hot springs health retreats in tiny El Verano and other nearby communities.

The 1908, the vintage building was one of a string of resorts built along Sonoma Creek that became popular places for camping and dancing to big band music.

Paul’s Resort had been unoccupied for many years when it caught fire.

Fire officials said no one was injured fighting the fire. The cause remains under investigation.

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