Fire has engulfed the vacant ManWin Hotel in Winnipeg, prompting an emergency response that has shut down parts of Main Street. The historic structure, which has been unoccupied for over a year, was first reported on fire around 4 a.m. Wednesday. Thick smoke billowed from the two-storey building as firefighters employed an aerial ladder to combat the flames.
Details of the Incident
By 6:30 a.m., sections of the hotel had partially collapsed. In response to the fire, emergency crews evacuated buildings adjacent to the hotel. Authorities closed both the northbound and southbound lanes of Main Street, between Disraeli Freeway and Higgins Avenue, along with Logan Avenue from King Street to Disraeli in all directions.
History of the ManWin Hotel
Dating back to 1882 as the Walker House, the hotel has undergone multiple name changes, including the Britannia Hotel and Maple Leaf Hotel. Over the past decade, it has gained notoriety, being associated with multiple homicides and numerous visits from city inspectors due to health hazards.
- Opened: 1882
- Original Name: Walker House
- Final Name: ManWin Hotel
- Last Closure: January 2025, ordered by the city
- Issues: Electrical, structural, fire-safety, and livability
In January 2025, the city mandated the hotel’s permanent closure due to various safety issues. Its proximity to Main Street Project, an organization aiding individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction, has drawn additional concern as emergency services continue their work.
To support those affected in the neighborhood, buses have been deployed to provide shelter for homeless individuals during this emergency. The fire at the ManWin Hotel marks a significant event in the fabric of Winnipeg’s history, highlighting the challenges faced by aging structures and the communities surrounding them.
