How to Find Out When a Hotel Was Built
If you’re curious about the history of a hotel or just want to know when it was built, there are a few ways to find out.
Here’s a quick answer to your question: to determine when a hotel was built, look for clues in the architecture, ask the hotel staff, check local archives or historical societies, and search online databases.
In this article, we’ll explore these methods in more detail so you can uncover the history of your favorite hotels.
Examine the Architecture
When trying to determine when a hotel was built, examining the architecture is a great place to start. Pay attention to the details and features that are unique to certain eras and styles. Here are some tips to help you:
Look for architectural styles that were popular during certain time periods
Architectural styles go in and out of fashion, so knowing when a particular style was in vogue can give you a rough idea of when a hotel was built. For example, Art Deco was popular in the 1920s and 1930s, while mid-century modern was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Look for telltale signs of these styles, such as geometric shapes and bold colors for Art Deco, and clean lines and minimalist design for mid-century modern.
Note any specific details or features that are typical of certain eras
Specific details and features can also help you pinpoint the time period in which a hotel was built. For example, in the early 1900s, many hotels had grand lobbies with ornate chandeliers, marble floors, and intricate woodwork. In the 1970s, hotels often had shag carpeting, bright floral wallpaper, and mirrored walls. Take note of any unique features you see, and do some research to see if they are typical of a certain era.
Consult with an architecture or history expert to help you identify the time period
If you’re having trouble identifying the time period based on the architecture alone, consider consulting with an architecture or history expert. They can help you identify specific styles and features, and provide you with a more accurate timeline based on historical context. You can find architecture and history experts at universities, historical societies, and museums.
By examining the architecture of a hotel, you can often get a good idea of when it was built. Look for unique styles and features, and don’t be afraid to consult with an expert if you need help.
Ask the Hotel Staff
If you’re curious about the history of a hotel, the best place to start is by talking to the staff. They’ll likely have a wealth of information about the hotel and its origins. Here are some tips for getting started:
Inquire at the front desk or concierge about the history of the hotel
The front desk or concierge is a good place to start when looking for information about a hotel’s history. These staff members are often trained to provide guests with information about the hotel, including its age and any notable historical events that have taken place there. They may also be able to provide you with brochures or other materials that provide additional information about the hotel.
Ask if there are any historical documents or records available
If the hotel has been around for a while, there may be historical documents or records available that can provide additional information about its history. Ask the staff if there are any historical documents or records available for you to review. This might include old guest registers, photographs, or newspaper articles. If the hotel has a museum or historical display, this is also a great place to learn more about its history.
Speak with employees who have worked at the hotel for a long time
If you really want to get an insider’s perspective on the hotel’s history, try speaking with employees who have worked there for a long time. These individuals may have personal stories and anecdotes that provide a unique perspective on the hotel’s past. They may also know about historical events that took place at the hotel that are not widely known.
Check Local Archives or Historical Societies
If you’re curious about when a hotel was built, one of the best places to start your search is at a local archive or historical society. These organizations often have extensive collections of documents, photographs, and other materials related to the history of the area, including information about hotels and other buildings that have been constructed.
Visit local archives or historical societies to search for information
When you visit a local archive or historical society, be sure to ask if they have any information about the hotel you’re interested in. They may have records of building permits or construction plans that can give you a good idea of when the hotel was built. They may also have old photographs or newspaper articles that can provide additional context and help you piece together the hotel’s history.
Look for records of building permits or construction plans
Building permits and construction plans are excellent resources for determining when a hotel was built. These documents typically contain information about the building’s construction, including the date when construction began and ended. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to find information about the architect, builder, or other contractors involved in the construction process.
See if there are any historical photographs or newspaper articles available
Historical photographs and newspaper articles can also be a great resource for finding out when a hotel was built. Photographs can give you a sense of the hotel’s style and architecture, which can help you determine when it was constructed. Newspaper articles may contain information about the hotel’s opening or mention it in passing in an article about the area’s development. Be sure to check both local and national newspapers, as well as any trade publications that may have covered the hotel’s opening.
Search Online Databases
If you’re trying to find out when a hotel was built, one of the best places to start is with online databases. Here are a few resources to try:
- National Register of Historic Places: This database includes information on buildings, structures, and sites that are historically significant. You can search by state and city to find hotels that are listed on the register.
- Local historical societies: Many historical societies have online databases that include information about local landmarks, including hotels. Check to see if the city or town where the hotel is located has a historical society website.
Search for the hotel name and location on websites like Google Maps or TripAdvisor
Another way to find out when a hotel was built is to search for the hotel name and location on websites like Google Maps or TripAdvisor. Here’s how:
- Go to Google Maps or TripAdvisor and enter the name and location of the hotel.
- Click on the hotel’s listing to see more information.
- Look for details like the year the hotel was founded or built. This information may be included in the hotel’s description or history section.
Look for information on the hotel’s website or social media pages
Finally, you can often find information about when a hotel was built by checking the hotel’s own website or social media pages. Here are some tips:
- Look for an “About” or “Our History” section on the hotel’s website. This may include information about when the hotel was founded or built.
- Check the hotel’s social media pages for posts about anniversaries or milestones. Hotels may celebrate significant dates like their 50th or 100th anniversary, which can give you a clue about when they were built.
By using these online resources, you should be able to find out when a hotel was built and learn more about its history.
Conclusion
Determining when a hotel was built can be a fun and interesting project for history buffs or anyone curious about the past.
By examining the architecture, asking hotel staff, checking local archives, and searching online databases, you can piece together the history of a hotel and gain a deeper appreciation for its place in time.
So the next time you stay at a hotel, take a moment to appreciate its history and the stories that have unfolded within its walls.
