The Pioneer Lodge was typical of early-twentieth-century railroad hotels that provided accommodation for travelers in many small communities. Its broad two-story front porch is suited to catch summer breezes. Clad in narrow lap siding, all the materials needed to build the hotel were brought in by the railroad. Built by Flasher’s founder, the William Brown Land Company of Chicago, the hotel was one of two competing for business here until after World War II. For a time it served as the Odd Fellows Lodge and the post office. The building again serves as a hotel and includes converted apartment units that are popular with pheasant hunters.