I hope you enjoy these photos of the historic
La Posada Hotel in northern Arizona. I took them this summer during our second stay at this unique hotel.
La Posada was built as one of the chain of Fred Harvey hotels built to accommodate travelers on the Santa Fe railroad. It was built to have the feel of a Spanish Hacienda. It was originally designed by Mary Jane Colter who also designed six buildings at the Grand Canyon including the Bright Angel Lodge.
La Posada opened May 15, 1930, just after the stock market crash of 1929, and remained open for just 27 years. In 1957, the hotel closed to the public. The museum-quality furnishings were auctioned off in 1959. In the early 1960s, much of the building was gutted and transformed into offices for the Santa Fe Railway. Several times over the ensuing 40 years, the building was nearly demolished, as recently as 1994 when the railway announced its plans to move out for good.
Allan Affeldt and his wife Tina Mion heard about the hotel and purchased it in 1997 after much negotiation, bringing with him a strong vision and commitment for returning La Posada to Colter’s original concept. Restoration started immediately and continues today, thanks to Affeldt’s efforts and the support of local preservationists, hotel guests, and a talented team of artisans and craftsmen.
The hotel is located in Winslow Arizona. The town is located off interstate 40 east of Flagstaff. Looking at the town, you will not expect much. Once you are on the grounds of the hotel you will be in another world and time. The hotel includes one of the country’s most unique dining rooms previously featured in Con Nast Magazine.
The Turquoise Room is considered by many to be the finest restaurant in the Four Corners region, the Turquoise Room opened in 2000 under the direction of renowned Chef John Sharpe, who oversees every detail of the preparation and service.
My wife and I have enjoyed our visits both this year and last. Each time we have enjoyed the history, the unique accommodations, the food and the owner's dedication to renovating the property. As a remodeling professional with a background in green remodeling, I appreciated that the owners were including green practices and materials in their ongoing remodeling efforts
My wife and I have enjoyed our visits both this year and last. Each time we have enjoyed the history, the unique accommodations, the food and the owner's dedication to renovating the property. As a remodeling professional with a background in green remodeling, I appreciated that the owners were including green practices and materials in their ongoing remodeling efforts
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