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1920
postcard courtesy of
rootsweb.com/~txgenweb/postcards |
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Gibraltar Hotel was once Paris’ shining glory, a testament to its
growth. Built in 1915 by Richard H. Blyth, Edward Buford Norment and
B.P. Bailey, it accommodated passengers on the St. Louis-Dallas rail
line – a time when towns had street cars and real train service. Though
damaged in the 1916 fire, the owners were optimistic enough to add
a seventh story upon restoration. But like most downtown hotels, it
fell out of favor with the traveling public, who wanted their lodgings
close and convenient to the highways. |
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The
Gibraltar Hotel today
Photo courtesy Robin Jett, 8-23-03 |
The hotel has had numerous owners since then, and has
stood empty sentry over downtown since the late 1970s. Gutted and
in various states of decay, the hotel has lost much of its past beauty.
One owner even committed suicide in 1985, although if the ghosts of
the Gibraltar Hotel had anything to do with that is anyone’s guess.
In 2004, Don “Pinky” Wilson, a local businessman, took ownership and
intends to make the old building into a senior center and condominium
complex. Hope springs eternal…
© Robin Jett
January, 2003 |
| Texas
Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing
Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history, stories,
landmarks and recent or vintage photos, please contact
us. |
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