Group Now Boasts 200 Members, Including Hotel Saved From the Wrecking Ball
"Historic Hotels of America allows people to travel in the footsteps of history," said Thierry Roch, executive director of National Trust Historic Hotels of America. "Our newest members, which include the site of the Treaty of Portsmouth, which ended the Russo-Japanese War, a beautiful example of adaptive use occupying an entire block of Washington, D.C. and the residence of "The Wizard of Oz" "munchkins" during the filming of the movie, allow travelers to have an encounter with the past that enhances the overall experience of their journey."
Especially noteworthy on the list of new members is Wentworth by the Sea in New Castle, N.H. In 1996, it was featured on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's list of 11 Most Endangered Places. Thanks to the efforts of a coalition of preservationists including the National Trust, community supporters and the non-profit Friends of the Wentworth, the hotel was saved from the wrecking ball.
Created in 1989 with 32 member hotels, National Trust Historic Hotels of America is a collection of hotels selected by the National Trust for Historic Preservation for historic integrity, architectural quality, outstanding preservation efforts and stewardship. To qualify, hotels must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized locally as having historic significance.
The hotels vary in size, location, style of architecture, meeting and dining facilities, special amenities and room rates, ranging from $59 to $15,000 per night. The collection is comprised of establishments ranging from luxury hotels in major cities to small-town inns, remote country retreats and noteworthy resorts.
Representing nearly 33,000 rooms, National Trust Historic Hotels of America ranks as one of the top 20 largest hotel consortia, according to Hotels magazine (July 2002).
The directory of member hotels can be purchased by sending a $4.00 check or money order to National Trust Historic Hotels of America, P.O. Box 320, Washington, D.C. 20055-0320.
NEW MEMBERS -- APRIL 2003
Hotel San Carlos, Phoenix - The intersection of Central and Monroe streets, the site of the San Carlos Hotel, has had a long and significant role in the history of Phoenix. At this spot, Native Americans once worshipped the god of learning and the city's first school was built here in 1874. After its demise and demolition, the entire city block remained vacant for more than a decade until the present-day hotel was built in 1927. At the time of its opening, the San Carlos was hailed as one of the most modern hotels in the southwest and was the first high-rise, fully air-conditioned, elevator-equipped hotel of the day. Today, the Italian Renaissance property has been beautifully refurbished and provides an ambiance that mixes nostalgic elegance with warm southwestern hospitality. Guests may even hear the laughter of youngsters whose spirits are said to frequent the spot of their childhood schoolhouse. (135 rooms and suites; rates from $107)
Culver Hotel, Culver City, Calif. - The spirit of Hollywood's most glamorous era lives on at the Culver Hotel. Within walking distance of two major movie studios, the hotel has its own impressive résumé of film credits, from appearances in the classic films of Laurel and Hardy and the Little Rascals to contemporary television shows. Originally opened in 1924 as the Hotel Hunt, European-style structure has been home to many stars, including Clark Gable, Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford - and John Wayne even owned the hotel for a time. The "munchkins" from "The Wizard of Oz" resided at the Culver while making the movie and several returned in 1997 for a "Rendezvous of Munchkins" to celebrate the 59th anniversary of the filming. The Culver is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical Resources and is the anchor of an ambitious downtown revitalization project. (46 rooms and suites; rates from $79)
Hotel Monaco, Washington, D.C. - Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Hotel Monaco is housed in what was originally the Tariff Building, a National Historic Landmark created by 19th century architect Robert Mills, designer of the Washington Monument. Completed in 1842, the structure was the first all-marble building in the city and was patterned after the ancient Roman Temple of Jupiter. For more than two years, the building underwent a dramatic rehabilitation, resulting in a unique ambiance that infuses its stunning architectural elements with a sense of excitement and a touch of the unexpected. Opening as a hotel in 2002 and occupying an entire block in the vibrant downtown arts and theatre district, the Hotel Monaco offers guests exemplary service, classic architecture and style with a modern flair. The hotel offers specially designed "Tall Rooms" with extra-long beds and heightened showerheads. A companion goldfish will be delivered upon request. (182 rooms and suites; rates from $245)
The Lombardy, Washington, D.C. - The Hotel Lombardy is a classic, European-style hotel. Originally built in 1929 as private residences, it is a beautifully preserved red brick and limestone building. In 1994, Hotel Lombardy began a transformation of its guest rooms and living space. The hotel overlooks historic Pennsylvania Avenue at 21st and I Street in Washington four blocks from the White House. Guest rooms showcase high-quality imported Italian and German fabrics, Oriental woolen rugs and original local art. Also featured in these spacious guest rooms are stainless-steel kitchenettes with dining area, beautiful chrome and enamel bathrooms of the period, fine bedding and imported silk renderings. (132 rooms and suites; rates from $179)
Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa, New Castle, N.H. - Built in 1874, Wentworth by the Sea was once the largest wooden structure on the New Hampshire coast. This "Grand Dame by the Sea" was a hub for social, business and political luminaries from around the world. The famed "Ship Building," modeled after the elegant ocean liners of the day, was exceptionally popular and offered stunning ocean views. In 1905, Russian and Japanese delegates met at the hotel and devised the Treaty of Portsmouth, which ended the Russo- Japanese War and garnered President Theodore Roosevelt the Nobel Peace Prize. By the 1980s, the structure had fallen into disrepair and was threatened with demolition. In 1996, the Wentworth was the first hotel to be featured on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's list of 11 Most Endangered Places. Thanks to the efforts of a coalition of preservationists including the National Trust, community supporters and the non-profit Friends of the Wentworth, the hotel was saved from the wrecking ball. Today, this Victorian lady has been magnificently restored, an enduring example of preservation at its finest, and marries a spirit of gracious hospitality with the most modern of conveniences. Most guest rooms offer ocean and harbor views. (161 rooms and suites; rates from $169)
Nassau Inn, Princeton, N.J. - In 1756, Judge Thomas Leonard built a home at 52 Nassau Street in Princeton, N.J., where he could comfortably live out his final years in close proximity to the college he helped establish. Following his death in 1769, the house became a tavern known as "The Sign of the College," which was frequented by Paul Revere, Aaron Burr and Thomas Paine, among other notable early Americans. During the Revolutionary War, the Inn housed both the Continental Army and British troops, depending upon the winds of war. As Princeton grew and changed, so did the inn, re-opening in a new structure at Ten Palmer Square in 1937. Norman Rockwell was commissioned to paint a mural for the new building to celebrate its rich colonial heritage. It is exhibited in the Yankee Doodle Tap Room, which draws its name from Rockwell's painting. Also on display is a platform from the cellar of the original Inn, once used to support casks of wine. (203 rooms and suites; rates from $209)
Clifton, The Country Inn, Charlottesville, Va. - The Clifton Inn was built in 1799 by Thomas Mann Randolph, governor of the Old Dominion and husband to Thomas Jefferson's daughter Martha. In the 19th century, Clifton was the residence of Colonel John Singleton Mosby, the "Grey Ghost of the Confederacy." It is said that Mosby evaded Union troops by sneaking supplies and provisions into a secret hiding place outside the main house. Today, this stately antebellum mansion has been lovingly restored and provides a tranquility and elegance that would make Jefferson feel right at home. This luxurious inn offers fine dining and an expansive estate offers hiking, biking, picnicking, swimming, croquet or simply relaxing. (14 rooms; rates from $165)
The Inn and Spa at Berkeley Springs, Berkeley Springs, W.Va. - For centuries, warm mineral springs have flowed through this part of West Virginia. The Native American inhabitants frequented the spot to drink and bathe in these mystical, healing waters. Early Americans, including George Washington, were devotees of its rejuvenating powers. In the 1840s, the arrival of the railroad made Berkeley Springs a popular summer resort for socialites and health-seekers from Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Today, the tradition of relaxation and rejuvenation continues at The Inn and Spa at Berkeley Springs. This elegant red brick Colonial building, nestled in the heart of town, has been welcoming travelers since 1932. The Origin Spa offers whirlpool mineral baths and a full range of spa treatments. (69 rooms and suites; rates from $99)
The Blennerhassett, Parkersburg, W.Va. - Built in 1889 by William Chancellor, a local businessman and entrepreneur, The Blennerhassett began its legacy of culture and sophistication. For more than a century, the elegant surroundings and rich furnishings have played host to businessmen and tycoons. Once the location of the First National Bank of Parkersburg, the hotel was a central hub for business dealings. Outfitted with lavish crown moldings and extravagant light fixtures, this majestic showpiece captivated guests with its splendor. Following a renovation in 2003, The Blennerhassett has been returned to its original grandeur, offering European-style décor, gourmet cuisine and attentive service. Signature guestrooms are outfitted with granite vanities, marble showers and exquisite linens. Guests experience a fusion of past, present and future whether enjoying dinner, relaxing in the Library over a game of backgammon or gathering with friends in the lobby. (91 rooms and suites; rates from $109)