THE HISTORY OF THE ROOSEVELT HOTEL

The Roosevelt was named for America's 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt. President Roosevelt was a naturalist and dedicated much of his time to conservation. During his Presidency from 1901 to 1909, he designated 150 National Forests, 51 Federal Bird Sancuaries, five National Parks, 18 National Monuments, and 4 National Game Preserves, and 21 National Reclamation Projects. Roosevelt also provided federal protection for nearly 230 million acres of US land. There are five commissioned oil paintings throughout the Roosevelt Hotel commemorating the five National Parks.


THEN
Built in 1929 during the onslaught of the Great Depression, the Roosevelt Hotel provided first class high rise accommodations in the very new and burgeoning city of Seattle. Seattle was a stepping-off point for fortune seekers headed to Alaska, and a port of call for adventure seekers, world travelers, and a gateway to the Pacific Rim nations of Asia. The Roosevelt has undergone several renovations since first opening; closing for several years in the 80's, and reopening to the public again in 1989.

 


NOW
One can still find beautiful Art Deco moulding in the second floor Art Gallery. The lobby decor suggests an early 20th century genleman's retreat, complete with hundreds of books available to guests, a cozy fireplace setting warming lobby guests on chilly days, and a grand piano. Honoring the President's love of the art and culture, the second floor of the hotel hosts an art gallery featuring local and regionally established fine artists.

The pink neon rooftop sign is still lit 24 hours a day, and is a beacon in the downtown night to guests heading back from an event-filled day in the city.

  Learn more about Theodore Roosevelt
Visit the Theodore Roosevelt WA Chapter website. A work-in-progress though we'll be part of it.
 
©2008 The Roosevelt Hotel 1531 Seventh Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101 (206) 621-1200
Reservations 1-800-663-1144