Strand by Zabka has a rich history. Throughout the years it has gone by many names and worn many hats. The building that stood where the Strand is now was the Luella Hotel. In 1924, that hotel was bought by a few investors, including a Chicago Cubs pitch by the name of John Kling. They tore the building down to make way for the Strand Hotel and Theatre. It had it’s grand opening on August 16, 1925.

It is reported that thousands attended the grand opening of the new magnificent “European” style three story “fire proof” building, including a coffee shop. It had 69 beautiful rooms that had steam heating and electric lights which was state of the art for that time period!

In 1928, Kling bought out the other investors and added the fourth and fifth stories in 1929. That year he also purchased the lot just south of the building and built a covered garage that could hold up to 80 cars.

From 1942 to 1943, the Army Air Force Technical School conducted training at the Chillicothe Business College and rented out the Strand Hotel for its trainees.

For the next 60 years, it passed through many hands before it was procured by Nathan Zabka in 2025 just before the building turned 100 years old. It is again going through renovations to give it a new flair with old world class. The first story is having new windows installed. In the near future, it will feature a shop retailing local items, a food court, a beauty shop and elegant decor. After the first story is finished, each of the 28 apartments will be remodeled with custom cabinets, beautiful concrete and epoxy counters and fixtures in the 1920s style. Our goal is create an atmosphere that many will love to visit or call home.