COUNCIL GROVE (AP) – The historic Hays House 1857 Restaurant and Tavern in Council Grove might be open again by Valentine’s Day.

The restaurant closed Dec. 14 after a fire, which began in a grease fryer. Fire damage was contained to the kitchen but the entire structure had smoke damage.

Work to remove the smoke damage was completed Tuesday. Klein Construction of Wichita will now rebuild the kitchen, add new lights and repair the floor of the 154-year-old building.

The Emporia Gazette reports the target date for re-opening is Valentine’s Day.

Council Grove fire chief Chris Blackledge says the cause of the fire has not been determined but he ruled out arson.

According to its website, the Hays House was opened in 1857 by Seth M. Hays, the grandson of Daniel Boone.