The Admiral Beatty Hotel, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Saint John, New Brunswick, stands as a testament to the city’s rich past and vibrant community spirit. Originally opening its doors in 1925, this historic building has witnessed the ebb and flow of Saint John's history, from its days as a luxurious hotel to its current incarnation as a senior citizens' apartment complex.
The site of the Admiral Beatty Hotel has a history that predates the building itself. Before the hotel, the location was home to the Dufferin Hotel, a four-story establishment that hosted notable figures, including the famous magician Harry Houdini. The Dufferin Hotel closed its doors in 1923, paving the way for the construction of the Admiral Beatty Hotel.
Named in honor of Admiral of the Fleet David Beatty, the new hotel was a grand project, backed by a substantial capital investment. It was a beacon of luxury and modernity, boasting 250 rooms spread across eight stories. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Ross and Macdonald, the building was a striking example of Neoclassical architecture, constructed with stone and brick.
The Admiral Beatty Hotel quickly became a central hub for social and business gatherings. Its elegant ballroom, dining rooms, and meeting spaces hosted numerous events, including the first convention of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in 1926. The hotel was also a popular venue for community events, receptions, and dances, making it a vibrant part of Saint John's social scene.
However, the hotel was not without its controversies. Until the early 1950s, it enforced a discriminatory policy that restricted Black individuals from entering through the front doors. This policy was eventually overturned thanks to the courageous actions of Lena O'Ree, a hotel elevator worker who insisted on using the front entrance, thereby breaking the color barrier.
By the 1970s, the Admiral Beatty Hotel faced challenges as newer hotels emerged in the city. It eventually ceased operations in 1982. Plans to demolish the building for a parking lot were thwarted by a community-driven effort to preserve the historic structure. A successful fundraising campaign led by the Rotary Club of Saint John raised $350,000, which played a crucial role in saving the building.
In 1986, the former hotel was transformed into the Rotary Admiral Beatty Complex, a 112-room apartment building designed to accommodate senior citizens. This adaptation marked a new chapter for the building, preserving its historical significance while serving a vital community need.
The Admiral Beatty Hotel's design is a fine example of the Neoclassical style, characterized by its symmetrical facade and elegant stone and brickwork. At 148 feet tall, the building stands proudly at the intersection of King Square South and Charlotte Street, adjacent to the Imperial Theatre. Its timeless design continues to capture the attention of passersby and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Throughout its history, the Admiral Beatty Hotel has welcomed a host of notable guests. In 1932, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart stayed at the hotel, and her visit was marked by a breakfast meeting with a local reporter. The hotel also played host to members of the Canadian royal family, including Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, during their visit in 1951.
In 1964, the renowned American evangelist Billy Graham visited Saint John and was interviewed at the hotel, further cementing its place in the annals of the city's history.
Today, the Rotary Admiral Beatty Complex stands as a living legacy of Saint John's history and resilience. Its transition from a luxury hotel to a community-focused apartment complex reflects the adaptability and spirit of the city. While the building no longer serves as a hotel, its historical significance and architectural beauty continue to make it a cherished landmark in Saint John.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply exploring the vibrant city of Saint John, the Admiral Beatty Hotel offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable building.
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