The Grand Opening of the Occidental Hotel
John Collins opened the Occidental Hotel to thousands with free food and drink; it now accepts guests.
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John Collins' new Occidental, the finest hotel building north of San Francisco, as well as the most elegantly furnished, was thrown open to the public last evening, and was visited by thousands of citizens. The great, handsome brick structure was brilliantly lighted from basement to attic, and from a distance presented a fine sight. The interior is equal in appearance, if not superior, to the exterior. The parlors, as well as the rooms both in suites and single, are richly furnished in black walnut of the latest designs. The dining room is fresh and neat, and last night resembled a sparkling banquet hall. Mr. Collins, with his accustomed generosity and public spirit, threw the house open to the public, and all who chose to call and inspect its beauties, were wined and dined in a most sumptuous manner, no charge being made for anything. The house is now open for guests.
“The finest hotel building north of San Francisco.”
The Occidental Hotel was a hub of Seattle society in the late 19th century. Its site at 1st and Washington remains a significant historical point in Pioneer Square, though the original grand hotel was lost to history.
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