Caldwell Thu, Jun 19, 1902 – Page 5 · The Idaho Statesman (Boise, Idaho) · Newspapers.comA 1902 announcement in the Idaho Statesman updated readers on the progress of Caldwell’s newest hotel. Architects Campbell and Wayland were nearly finished with their designs and the project moves another step closer to construction. (Wayland would later form a partnership with James Fennell to design many Idaho buildings, many of which, like The Saratoga, also appeared on the National Register of Historic Places.)
Howard Sebree, who had served as Caldwell’s first mayor in 1893 and again in 1901 had a vision of a building that would be of great benefit to the town. In an article from 1903 promoting his plans, he told that Caldwell Tribune that:
“I realize the necessity for a good hotel in this town and am anxious to see one built.”
The idea of the new hotel wasn’t new to Caldwell citizens, but it took several years to make a reality. One of the earliest published references I’ve found appeared a year earlier in Elmore Bulletin- two years before the building would ultimately become a reality.
Thu, Feb 21, 1901 – 1 · Elmore Bulletin (Rocky Bar, Idaho) · Newspapers.comSebree goes on to to desribe to the reporter his plans for the new hotel:
“It is a three story structure with basement, electrically lighted and steam heated throughout. On the first floor is to be the dining room, kitchen, pantry, office, rotunda, barroom, barber shop, sample room, and, as plans, indicate, a drug store.”
“The building will be 50 by 120 feet, stone, brick and steel, the Main Street front of pale cream pressed brick. The second floor consists of suites of rooms, all supplied with baths, closets, etc, elegantly finished, well lighted, heated and ventilated.”
“On the third floor, the rooms will be plainer and cheaper, but yet neat, clean and comfortable. The dining room is to be 23 by 40 feet. A large corridor extends from the front entrance to the dining room and the stairway, opening to the left into the rotunda. The specifications require the most perfect workmanship and elegant finish.”
“The estimated cost of the building is $30,000 and it will cost $10,000 more to furnish it. “
The reporter goes on to add enthusiasm for the project:
“Everything possible should be done to encourage Mr. Sebree to go ahead with the erection of the hotel. Nothing could, at this time, contribute more to the welfare and upbuilding of [Caldwell.] It would have direct and beneficial influence on property valuation in every part of town, and would give an air of progress, a stability that at this time is much to be desired.”
Full article available at:
Sat, Mar 28, 1903 – 1 · The Caldwell Tribune (Caldwell, Idaho) · Newspapers.com
What aspects of Caldwell are you enthusiastic about today?