The Blanche Hotel
Introduction
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This historic hotel was built in 1902 and was the epicenter of social life and the seasonal tourist economy of Lake City, Florida. The hotel was designed by architect Frank Pierce Milburn and was the first building in Florida to have an elevator. The original hotel operated until 1967, and the building was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1990. Thanks to the efforts of local business leaders, the historic building has been renovated and continues to welcome guests to Lake City.
Images
The hotel in the early 20th century
Backstory and Context
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This hotel was home to numerous conventions and social events, and also a permanent residence for many people who worked in the area at the time. The Blanche has included many celebrities and influential people as guests including Johnny Cash and Al Capone.
Sources
Our Story, The Blanche. Accessed January 31st 2021. https://www.theblanche.com/about.
1925 Was A Boon Year, The Blanche A History. December 15th 2020. Accessed March 2nd 2021. https://theblancheahistory.org/.