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| Alcazar Hotel St. Augustine Florida |
| Alcazar Hotel opened by Henry Flagler on December 25, 1888. Building designed by Carrere and Hastings. Constructed by McGuire and McDonald. Supervising Architect -- J. W. Ingle. Today's St. Augustine City Hall and Lightner Museum. Fact Sheet 1891 - 40 rooms added Greenleaf & Crosby jewelers 1892 - H Tumlinson - steward F. W. Prior - clerk A. Bagley - bell boys Angell - superintendent E. J. Morrill - Register 1893- January 24 - Casino partially destroyed by fire 1893 - Joseph Fleck - Chef pastry clerk E J Morrill - room clerk E K Thom - assistant clerk Mrs. Price - housekeeper Harvey Tomlinson - chef William Crawford superintendent Count Favelle - Piccolo Al Volkman - claronetist A. Laurendean - oboe Harlem Cordes - cornet Stewart Ripley, flute Kolterman - pianist W. H. Smith - double bass 1894 - Rooms $3.50 per day American Plan Imperian Hungarian Gypsy Band Opened for rooms only Dr. and Mrs. Fremont Smith occupy rooms in the Alcazar Towers 1895 - C. W. Barker, general superintendent C. B. Knott manager of all three hotels E. Barron chef, French Mrs. Eaton, housekeeper Mr. J. Robertson, night clerk Edward Grabon - night clerk Jessie Harris, head waiter 1896 48 bathrooms added to Alcazar J. P. Greaves, manager Ernest Slenker, band director also violin Henry Heildelberg, flutest Garfond Mercadante, pianist Harry Koop, cellist William J. Henry, Superintendent Casino F Allen - Riding Academy 1897 J. P. Greaves manager Ernest Slenker leader of hotel band, violinist composed a march to honor Greaves 1898 J. P. Greaves, manager Asa Loomis, room clerk 1899 J. P. Greaves, manager James C. Gray, Night clerk 1902 City Council Oridiance for a span over Cordova Street with an elevated bridge 1907 Mr. Anderson, manager 1918 Hosmer's Bostom Orchestra, Franklin Charles, director 1921 Wm. McAuliffe, manager 1922 Wm. McAuliffe, manager, Hosemer's Boston Orchestra, Franklin Charles, director Benefit held for Maine suffers 2/26/1898 Favorite Guest - Thomas Edison Swimming Pool 45 feet from the pool floor to glass roof pool 120 ft long 50 feet wide depth 3 to 12 feet 1939 Performance Will Rogers and De Reszkie Singers on stage at the Casino February 19, 1900 Casino Tomorrow Night. Master Jamie Crippen, contralto, a dainty, polished little gentleman of 11 years, who has sung in hundreds of concerts with ARoney's Boys, and has established himself as a favorite in the affection of thousands. He will be heard at the Casino Tuesday evening, with ARoney's Boys and Blatchford Kavanagh. February 22, 1900 Dewey Pictures and Washington Ball to be Given There Tonight. This morning at the Casino the orchestra played National tunes, and an unusually large crowd was there all morning. Tonight one can go the two Georges for fifty cents, twenty-five cents per Jawge. That is to say, from eight until nine in the evening there will be moving picutres of the naval and land parades incident to the Dewey celebration, after which a Washington Birthday Ball will be the attraction. The ball room is being lavishly decorated in evergreens. February 23, 1900 At the Casino. Dewey Moving Pictures and Washington Birthday Ball. The Casino presented an unusually beautiful appearance last night. Around the pool stood potted palms, and large Japanese lanterns of unique design shed soft light over the water. Above the pool five great American flags hung in billows. The stairs were banked with cedar lighted with myriads of tiny red, white and blue incandescent lights, and opposite the entrance to the ball room one was dazzled by an illuminated design, lettered with Washington in incandescent lights, alternately red, white and blue; the background in wild smilax and a festoon of the same beneath. The stage was arranged for the portrayal of the moving pictures reproducing the familiar success of the Dewey parades which lasted from eight until nine o=clock, after which the ballroom was devoted to the Washington Ball until half past twelve. A program of sixteen numbers, each bearing an improvised and appropriate title was rendered. A great many were present and the evening was in every way a delightful one, the music being up to the usual standard of excellence. The very artistic decorations will remain over tonight, when an especial dance program will be given. February 26, 1900 The Casino tonight. Manager Taylor has arranged for special dance programs tonight and tomorrow night, the only remaining evenings before the beginning of Lent, next Wednesday being Ash Wednesday. The dance program will continue from 8:30 until 11 o'clock for these two nights, and every one will have an opportunity of spending two more evenings in dancing. The regular price of admission will obtain. February 27, 1900 Lamar, the little son of Mr. J. D. Rahner, is among the Casino patrons who have recently mastered the art of swimming. He is able to strike out for himself now without the assistance of Mrs. Scott, his instructress. March 3, 1900 The Casino Company. The Casino Company, a musical, dramatic and social organization, has just been organized for the purpose of producing plays and entertainments for recreation and charity. The company has adopted a novel plan, which will enable any recognized organization, church or charitable society to realize money, without any responsibilitied or risks. The company=s paln is to sell blocks of tickets to any worthy organization, and allow them 25 cents on every ticket sold through them. The members of this company, which consists of some of the best amateurs in St. Augustine, have prepared for production the three act farcical comedy by W. S. Gilbert entitled "Tom Cobb, or in Love With a Soul." This will be presented at the Casino on the evening of Friday, March 9. Tickets will be sold at 50 and 75 cents each, and reserved seats are now on sale; the diagram being on exhibition at the Casino office. The Casino stage has been enlarged and special scenery painted for this play. It is the intention of the Casino Company to give a series of entertainments and plays from time to time throughout the season. It would be advisable for such organization as come within the scope of the above outlined proposition to communicate with the Casino company under the management of Mr. A. M. Taylor, where all particulars may be learned. Casino Bowling Alleys. At the Casino Bowling Alley three prizes will be awarded for the month of March: A large "Stein" for the best score made during the month, and a wee, blue mug for the best cocked hat score made in the month. The tournament for the News Herald challenge cup is now on. This cup was won in 1896 by John O'Connor, in 1897 and 1898 by William Carcaba, and last year by Donald Dunham. To further encourage ladies who go in for bowling, a hatpin contest will be inauguarated by Mr. Taylor for those making a certain score. He has several attractive hatpins, some with a coonhead design and others with coat-of-arms of the State. * * * Water sports at the Casino tonight will embody some good high diving exhibitions and fancy swimming. March 5, 1900 Casino Water Sports. The Water sports Saturday night were witnessed by about 500 people B a larger crowd than they have ever before attracted. Dancing, as usual, was the amusement with the majority of the young people. March 9, 1900 Informal Reception at the Casino. An informal reception was given at the Casino last evening by Mrs. H. S. Houston of the Florida House in honor of Miss Pearl Houston of Holyoke, and Mr. R. H. Chapin of Springfield, Mass. A very enjoyable evening was passed in dancing. March 10, 1900 The Casino Company. "Tom Cobb, or In Love With a Soul" Presented Last Night. It was the unanimous verdict of the large audience which attended the performance of W. s. gilbert=s farcical comedy that the play was well rendered. The numerous bursts of applause and the continuous ripples of laughter throughout each act testified to the opinion of the spectators. The amateurs who participated in the play proved themselves to be no novices in the histrionic art and acted with ease and vivacity. Mrs. R. P. Kettle, as "Caroline Effingham," was perfect in her part, and sustained her reputation as a painstaking and accomplished actress. Miss Rosa Hoey in a small but important part, "Mrs. Effingham," demonstrated her undoubted ability in a character part, and her make-up was extremely good. Miss Estelle Hayden, as "Matilda O'Fipp," was the dutiful daughter of "Colonel O'Fipp," a part splendidly portrayed by J. Clifford R. Foster. Mr. Foster's make-up was very fine, and his acting as usual, good. Geo. Brown played the part of "Tom Cobb" in an artistic manner and had the sympathies of his audience throughout his changing fortunes. As "Tim Whipple" Mr. W. A. Riley played the semi-villain's part very well, and at the opening of the second act sang "Without Thee" in good voice and with exquisite taste, evoking a round of applause, Mr. Charles E. Kettle as "Mr. Effingham" an aged man, but hale and tough as hickory, was inimitable, while Mr. Harry Robertson as "Bulstrode Effingham" was too droll for anything, and riased the biggest laugh of the evening. The "Washington Black" of James Coxetter was all right and his make-up perfect. The enlargement of the Casino stage and the preparation of the specially painted scenery is a great improvement, which, together with the excellent music of Prof. LePaige's orchestra, puts the Casino on the footing of an opera house. It is to the untiring effort and instruction of Mr. A. M. Taylor that the success of this little comedy is in large measure due, and it is hoped, if only for the benefit of the few who did not attend last night that the play may be repeated. March 12, 1900 The Smith-Gorton company, who made such a hit here in the earlier part of the season, will give another performance at the Casino tomorrow night, in which their specialties will be of a different character. Mr. Smith will repeat his impersonation of Elizabeth Cady Staton, which took so well before, and in addition a one-act play will be given, the well-known farce; A Happy Pair. Reserved seats at 50 cents are now on sale at the Casino. * * * The Ponce de Leon waiters will give their twelfth annual cakewalk at the Casino Thursday night. March 13, 1900 These Famous Entertainers Will be at the Casino Tonight. Those who were fortunate enough to hear Smith and Gorton, the famous entertainers, when they were at the Casino some weeks ago, will be delighted to attend their performance tonight, which will consist of their inimitable impersonations, sand etching, clay modeling, etc., and in addition a one act play entitled The Happy Pair. This will be well worth seeing. March 15, 1900 Alcazar Ball. The ballroom at the Casino never looked more beautiful than it did last night on the occcasion of the Alcazar ball. The entrance was through a bower of aromatic cedar and palm branches and stately potted palms stood irregularly around the spacious room. The balusters were thickly trained with wild smilax, and the opening arches overlooking the pool were trellised with long fronds of the cocoanut palm brought from Miami. Wreaths and festoons of delicate greenery adored the white walls and were massed in corners. Gigantic punchbowls were embowered in a grotto fashioned of gray Spanish moss, studied thickly with pink roses, and, embedded in festoons, wreaths and mossy grottoes, on the vine-robed balusters and in green recesses were thousands of miniature colored incandescent lights which shed a soft glow over the scene of enchantment. The cornices of the windows were draped in pink and green. One wing of the room was converted into a supper room where fifty little tables each accommodating from six to eight persons, were arranged on heavy rugs. Between four and five hundred invited guests were present among whom were many beautiful women robed in handsome gowns. An original order of dances consisting of twelve numbers was contained in a dainty program of blue and silver, and with exquisite music and the floor in perfect condition, no detail was lacking which goes to made an ideal ball. March 17, 1900 The twelfth annual cakewalk of the Ponce de Leon waiters at the Casino last night was a pronounced success. There was a regular crush. The first part of the program consisting of some singing and dancing did not amount to much, with the exception of some good buck dancing which was done for a $5 prize. This was won by Wragley, to the satisfaction of everybody. The cakewalk itself, which began about ten o=clock was the main thing, of course, and the contestants included some very clever steppers. After a short time it became evident which was the favorite couple in line and the decision of the judges a warding the cake to couple number fourteen met with general approbation. The cake is the large and much ornamented one which has been on exhibition at the Casino for the past several days, and was won by the Valencia bell-boy and his partner, a dusky belle of Jacksonville. A couple of two steps and waltzes were participated in after the award by the entire Apush@ and some very graceful dancers were seen. March 19, 1900 Special program of music, swimming and dancing at the Casino tonight. March 21, 1900 The fruit exhibit in the Alcazar is redolent with orange blossoms brought up today from Rockledge, and the waxy blooms nestling amid green leaves are much admired by visitors. March 23, 1900 Tom Cobb Tonight. Successful Farce to Be Repeated at the Casino by Original Cast. A large number of seats have been sold for the second presentation of Tom Cobb, or In Love With a Soul tonight at the Casino. This farce, which made such a hit on the evening of the 9th instant, is the funniest, most laugh producing play ever seen on the Casino boards, and bids fair to be even more largely attended than before..... Curtain up promptly at 8:30, and down for the last time at 10:30. Incidental music by the Casino orchestra under Prof. LePaige. Reserved seats 50 and 75 cents. Cakewalk at the Casino. By the Alcazar Waiters It was Highly Successful. The cakewalk of the Alcazar waiters at the Casino last night was a fine affair, and attracted a crowd of over seven hundred people. The concert which began the entertainment was quite good, better than that of a week ago with the exception of the song and dancer attired in a green and red suit, who was very tiresome. Grace and Annie in wing dances were excellent, as were the three Jones brothers in musical specalties. The cakewalk which began about 10 o=clock, indluded seven couples all of whom were good walkers. After a close contest of almost an hour=s pacing, the first prize, $7.00, was awarded couple number one, Jim Jones from Jacksonville and Lillie a tiny darktown belle attired in pale blue. This little thing is not over seven years old, and her antics were very cute. She and her partner, a shining coal black man, received vociferous applause. The second prize, $3.00 was won by Samuel Lee and Mabel, a graceful couple, and the thrid prize, the cake, was the reward of Campbell and Annie, the latter another small walker. The floor manager was F. Garvin who is deserving of much credit in arranging this very successful entertainment. The Alcazar waiters have challenged. The waiters of the Ponce de Leon to a competition walk to come off next week, which will be the last cakewalk of the season. March 24, 1900 Sepcial program of water sports at the Casino tonight, consisting of height and distance leaping off the springboard, high diving from the balcony, tub races, shooting the chutes, greased pole climbing, etc. Water Sports at the Casino Tonghit. Manager Taylor is decorating Mr. Flagler's private box in the Casino in honor of Admiral Dewey, who is expected to witness the water sports tonight. Special music has also been arranged. March 26, 1900 There was a large crowd at the Casino Saturday night to witness the usual water sports, which were up to their general standard in way of excitement and amusement. In anticipation of a visit from Admiral and Mrs. Dewey, a private box had been draped in American flags, and a song and chorus, composed specially by Professor Le Paige for the occasion, had been rehearsed by a score of trained voices embracing some of the best talent in the city. Owing to fatigue incident to their journey and reception in Jacksonville, the Admiral and his wife did not make a public appearance, and the crowd at the casino was disappointed on that account, but the chorus was sung anyway, and enthusiastically applauded. The composition ahs not only a rousing and catchy air, but is good music without any trashy characteristics, as is not always the case with patr=iotic songs, and it rang very true and strong Saturday night. December 16, 1909 Hotel Alcazar Opens for Season of 1910 Tomorrow With the formal opening dinner tomorrow night from 6 to 8 o=clock the doors of the patalial Alcazar hotel will be thrown open for the winter season of 1909-1910. Manager Wm. McAuliffe has everything in readiness for the opening and the season is expected to be one of the best in the history of the hotel. Mr. McAuliffe has been in the city several weeks superintending the work of preparing this great hostelry for the coming winter season. Everything possible has been done to have everything better arranged than ever before at the Alcazar for the coming season. All of the East Coast Hotel Company's magnificent hotels are popular but it is planned to make this one on the most popular of all and Mr. McAuliffe is working with this end in view. Invitations have been sent out to the opening dinner and many citizens or St. Augustine people will be present as the guests of the hotel. Tourist travel is daily increasing in volume and the hotel will doublesss have many guests as soon as the doors are opened. Mr. McAuliffe is himself a man of wide experience in hotel work and is well known and popular among many of the regular winter visitors to the East Coast. In carrying out his plan for making this one of the best seasons in the history of the Alcazar he has associated with him a staff selected from among the best and most experienced attaches of the leading hotels of the country. The staff is as follows: Chief Clerk, Frank T. Kealing; cashier and bookkeeper, H. G. Loud; mail clerk, H. A. Brooks; night clerk, W. E. Wilson; chief steward, Stephen C. Meigher; chef, Frank C. Travers; housekeeper, Miss Margaret Crocker; assistant housekeeper, Miss Fannie C. Augur; head waiter, W. H. Wilkinson; head bellman, Geo. W. Boykin; head porter, Daniel L. Reardon. The wine room will be in charge of S. P. Sheridan. Prof. E. W. Prouty, formerly of the Poinciana, has been engaged as leader of the orchestra. The orchestra will as usual be fo the highest class and its music will be a pleasing feature of the Alcazar during the new season. Prof. John F. Conroy will have charge of the Casino and will hold it up to its accustomed high standard. The barber shop will be in charge of Geo. W. Murray. December 31, 1909 Dance at the Hotel Alcazar. The management of the Hotel Alcazar will give a New Year=s eve dance in the spacious ball-room of the hotel that will be enjoyed by its many guests, and many of the residents of the city. January 3, 1910 Dance at the Hotel Alcazar. A notable event announcing the commencement of St. Augustine=s social season was the New Year=s dance given in the parlors of the Hotel Alcazar Friday evening by the management of the hotel. As the dancing continued until past midnight those participating danced the old year out and the new year in. The music, which was of the best, was furnished by the Alcazar orchestra and as the floor was perfect for dancing the affair proved most delightful. This function was enjoyed by Manager McAuliff=s many guests in the hotel, and a large number of invited friends. This is the first of a series of pleasurable affairs that will be given at the Hotel Alcazar during the season. January 4, 1910 Change in Orchestra. Prouty's orchestra at the Hotel Alcazar will henceforth be under the direction of Mr. E. J. Quiory of Worchester, Mass. Mr. Quiry has played in the orchestras of a number of large hotels in the leading summer resorts of the North, and has a wide experience as an orchestra leader. Mr. Prouty, who has been here since the opening of the Hotel Alcazar, has left for Nassau to assume the leadership of the orchestra at the Hotel Colonial there. Dance at Alcazar. A delightful informal dance was enjoyed last evening in the parlors of the Alcazar Hotel gby a number of guests in the hotel, and many young people in the city. The management of the Hotel Alcazar plans to give one of these enjoyable affairs on Thursday evening of each week throughout the season. January 15, 1910 Casino Will Open Monday For 1910 Winter Season The Casino will open for business on Monday, January 17th, at 9 a.m. The guests and patrons will find it more comfortable than ever before as it has been thoroughly painted and the baths and gymnasium have been put in first-class condition. There will be music from 11 to 12 o=clock. The usual water sports and dancing will occur on Saturday evenings. It will be in charge of Prof. John F. Conroy, a well known athlete and author, who has been physical director and fencing master of the municipal gymnasium of Boston, Mass., and also the Roxbury Latin School for the past ten years. He is a Harvard graduate and professor of Hygiene and Massage; has been awared the Congressional Medal by the United States and the Carnegie Medal for bravery in saving life. He has published several books relating to the art of swimming and of saving life and also on physical culture. He is ably assisted by Mr. Gustave Anderson and Mme. Edith Stromblad, both of whom are experts in hydrotherapeutic and Turkish treatments and graduate operators of the art of massage. Mr. Anderson has devoted the past eight years to the hydrotherapy and Turkish bathing and has operated in some of the famous Turkish baths in the country as well as in the Massachusetts General Hospital of Boston. The lady patrons of the baths will find in Mme. Stromblad a very fine operator of the hydrotherapy baths and massage. She is a graduate of Sanders Institution of Stockholm, Sweden, and New York. She has made massage a life study and will be remembered by patrons of the north shore of Massachusetts as she has treated there for a number of years. Hours for ladies will be from 9 a. m. to 2 p. m. and for gentlemen from 2 p. m. to 6 p. m. Classes in physical culture for both ladies and gentlemen will be a special feature. Prof. Conroy will be in charge. February 16, 1910 Dinner Party Among the dinner parties given recently at the the Alcazar grill was that at which Mr. And Mrs. Paul A. Sorg, of New York City, entertained a number of friends complimentary to Mr. And Mrs. Sherer, of London, England, who have been guests of the Hotel Alcazar for the past six weeks. February 23, 1910 Washington Ball A Brilliant Event Given by Management of Alcazar Delightful Event Beautiful Decorations and Two Orchestras Features of Notable Affair. Foremost among the social affairs that celebrated the birthday of George Washington was the grand ball given in the Casino by Mr. Wm. McAuliffe, manager of the Hotel Alcazar. This was one of the most brilliant social functions given in St. Augustine in years, and was enjoyed by hundreds of residents of the city, and a large number of visitors from the various hotels. The magnificent ball-room had, with the aid of artistic decorations, been transformed into a bower of beauty. The great arches were draped with red, white and blue bunting, while large American flags and hundreds of tiny ones arranged in most attractive designs adorned the walls. A large picture of the Father of Our Country draped with our nation=s colors, and illumined by many tiny vari-colored electric lights occupied a prominent place in the hall. Southern smilax, that most graceful of all vines, twined the pillars, and the effect of the glossy green leaves in contrast to the white columns was exceedingly lovely. In the alcove, where punch was served during the evening, quantities of smilax were used most artistically in draping the walls and arching the windows. The beautiful ball-room thus adorned was a most lovely setting for the number of beautiful women who thronged the room. The display of exquisite evening gowns rendered the brilliant scene like a great parterre of gorgeous flowers, and this was illumined by the soft radiance from myriads of electric lights of the colors red, white and blue. The Ponce de Leon, under the direction of Professor Shaw, and the Alcazar orchestras, led by Mr. E. J. Quiry, furnished the delightful music for the dances, and dance followed dance in rapid succession until eleven o'clock when a delicious course supper was served the guests in the spacious dining room of the Hotel Alcazar. An hour later dancing was resumed and continued until the wee sma= hours. The dance cards bore on the covers excellent likeness of our first President. In dainty lettering the cards contained beside the program of dances the names of the patronesses and members of the floor committee, and formed very pretty souvenirs of this brilliant ball. The patronesses, who are the leading society ladies of the city, and visiting guests of the Ponce de Leon and Alcazar hotels, were: Mrs. Andrew Anderson, Mrs. W. N. P. Darrow, Mrs. R. N. Dickman, Mrs. G. M. Fletcher, Mrs. G. W. Gibbs, Mrs. L. J. Jopkins, Mrs. C. F. Hopkins, Mrs. J. E. Ingraham, Mrs. W. A. Knight, Mrs. Albert Lewis, Mrs. Thos. A Lawton, Mrs. H. Marcotte, Mrs. N. M. McCoombs, Mrs. Geo. F. Miles and Mrs. Murray W. Seagears. The committee in charge was composed of Messrs. J. D. Ingraham, chairman; C. F. Hopkins, Jr., W. E. Moncure, C. L. Lyon, and Whitefield Cohen. Mr. McAuliffe entertains most royally and the hundreds of guests enjoying the hospitality of the Alcazar management last evening are most appreciative of the delightful evening of pleasure accorded them. Mr. McAuliffe and the members of the floor committee who so ably co-operated with him were the recipients of a deluge of congratulations. Among the guests were: Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Anderson, Dr. and Mrs. Alexander, Mr. And Mrs. Butler, Mr. And Mrs. A. V. Benson, Mr. And Mrs. J. L. Bickford, Mr. And Mrs. E. L. Barnes, Mr. And Mrs. Clarence Bevan, E. Ben Carter, Miss Cole, Mr. And Mrs. J. W. Estes, Mr. And Mrs. Edwards, Miss Edwards, H. H. Floyd, Mr. And Mrs. J. B. Floyd, Mr. And Mrs. Wm P Genovar, Mr. And Mrs. C. F. Hopkins, Mrs. A. L Hunt, Mr. And Mrs. J. E. Ingraham, Mrs. John Boyd Kellog, Miss Kellog, Mr. And Mrs. W. A. Knight, Mr. And Mrs. E. I. Leighton, Mr. And Mrs. W. A. MacWilliams, Miss Donald Allen, Capt. And Mrs. Marcotte, D. P. Morse, Mr. And Mrs. Eugene Masters, Miss Masters, Mr. And Mrs. Geo. F. Miles, Mr. And Mrs. A. V. Monson, Mrs. A. T. McMillan, Misses McMillan, Mr. And Mrs. McCoombs, Mr. And Mrs. G. S. Meserve, Mr. And Mrs. J. T. Petter, Miss Petter, Mr. And Mrs. H. B. Rouse, Miss Shepard, Mr. And Mrs. A. M. Terwilligar, Dr. and Mrs. DeWitt Webb, Miss Emily Wilson, Mrs. Alanson Woods, Mrs. And Miss Edwards, Lt. Col. H. G. Cavenaugh, Rear Admiral and Mrs. Winslow, Mrs. I. M. Arndt, Mr. And Mrs. I. W. Hamilton, Mrs. J. Camp, Miss M. E. Huston, Miss A. N. Blair, Mr. And Mrs. C. W. Roberts, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Beaumont, Mr. W. B. Kingham, Mrs. M. Kingham, Mrs. G. H. Schimpff, Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Guthrie, Mrs. E. P. Savery, Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Waldon, Mr. and Mrs. M. M. Wood, Major Saml Mahon and daughters, C. B. Contrell, Miss Mary Price, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Robinson, Mrs. Samuel Wait, Mrs. W. G. Stone, Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Seeley, Mr. and Mrs. W. O. Boutwell, Miss Butler, J. C. Branta, W. P. Boger, Mr. and Mrs E. K. Barrett, Whitfield Cohen, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert N. Casson, Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Callaway, Mr. and Mrs. J. O. Clarke, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Roy Canfield, Russell Dale, Joseph Dunn, Ethelbert Dyson, F. O. Dunham, Pierce Evans, Geo. L. Estes, Dr. and Mrs. E. F. Estes, W. B. Edminister, Gen. And Mrs. J. C. R. Foster, Misses Floyd, Mr. and Mrs. Guy Farris, Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Forward, Misses Gibbs, Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Hoatson, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Howatt, Miss Hunt; Misses Hopkins, G. C. Hopkins, Mr. and Mrs. F. A. Henderich, C. F. Hopkins, Miss N. S. Hawkins, Howard Hawkins, Carl Hawkins, J. D. Ingraham, Miss Kathleen Ingraham, Geo. W. Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Kirtland, Miss McLaughlin, Miss McWillaims, A. E. McCoy, Dr. Moseley , Robert Meserve, Clifford Noda, Misses O=Brien, Mr. and Mrs. S. T. Penna, A. E. Pilgrim, Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Rahner, W. J. Renfroe, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Snow, Jack Spencer, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Spear, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Spencer, Eugene Segui, Miss Edna Stanley, Miss Thornton, Miss Anges Usina, Miss Elsie Usina, Percy Van Ness, Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Walker, Dr. and Mrs. S. M. Worley, Dr. Geo. Young, Miss Bamberger, Miss Landis, Mr. and Mrs. D. Scoffum, Mr. and Mrs. Porter Smith, Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Wakelin, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Russell, Mrs. A. Dupont, Mr. and Mrs. J. Harvey, Miss E. R. Curtis, Mr. and Mrs. E. R. West, Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Waterhouse, Mrs. Hackett, Dr. J. B. Shaw, Mr. and Mrs. G. F. Miles, Miss E. L. Borden, Mrs. P. H. Gardner, M. K. Jones, W. T. Knox, E. L. Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. Dusenberg, J. R. Collins, J. W. Wilson, R. Kenbach, Mr. and Mrs. Bursill, Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Hallgood, Mr. and Mrs. R. Turner, Mrs. W. Barney, Mrs. Stromborn, Miss Chambers, W. H. Chambers, Col Murray, Mr. and Mrs. C. King, Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Keiser, Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Cox, Mrs. Koethon, Mrs. Berry, Miss McMillan, C. W. Henking, Mrs. Chew, Joseph Wagner, John Wagner, Mr. J. H. West and party, E. J. Sokoll, Miss Sokoll, Mrs. And Miss McCauley, the Hon. Mr. Justice and Mrs. Riddle, Mr. and Mrs. L. Brown Belfield, Mr. and Mrs. D. D. Brokaw, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Casserly, Mrs. C. W. Silcox, Miss Robson, Mrs. J. H. Sanders, Miss Helen Sanders, Miss Eisie Walker, H. B. Welborne, Mr. and Mrs. Huber, Mrs. H. R. Mallory, Mr. and Mrs. T. R. Savage, F. L. Thompkins, Mrs. H. B. Stough, Dr. and Mrs. J. Hammond, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Hills, Mr. and Mrs. G. F. Mecham, Misses Atwater, Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Hawes, Mrs. H. L. English, Miss J. Stockrell, Mrs. M. W. Hazeltine, Miss J. Hazeltine, R. T. Pettibone, Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Wood, Mr. and Mrs. C. N. Stierell, Mrs. G. B. Sanford, M. E. Robinson, Dr. and Mrs. M. W. Seagers, Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Putman, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. H. Neal, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Dickey, Miss MacDonald, Miss Dorothy O=Neil, Miss Florence O=Neil, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Bishop, Mr. and Mrs. H. M. Bean, Geo Van Nostran Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McClave, Mrs. H. H. Benedict, Mrs. E. M. Treat, Miss Rack, Miss A. R. Shephard, Miss E. E. Cole, Mr. and Mrs. J. K. Myers, Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Myers, Mrs. H. E. Wells, Mr. and Mrs D. E. Spangler, Mr. and Mrs. Remson Derick, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. B. Tobias, Mr. W. Hooker Atwood, Mrs. Wilson L. Smith, Mrs. E. E. Daniel, Rev. Dr. Geo. C. Houghton, Mrs. E. Sackett, Mr. and Mrs. James R. Riser, Miss Grace Riser, Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Cox, Miss Georgia MacMillan, T. E. McMullen, Miss McMullen, James E. Fitch, W. E. Dee, Dr. M. C. Baine, A. W. Boyden, J. W. Miller and wife, Mrs. E. B. Mix, Miss L. H. Woodworth, W. Bodek, Thos. W. Short, Chas. Strand, Miss E. J. Caldwell, Miss L. B. Hosley, B. M. Caldwell, Col. And Mrs. Geo. D. Post, Mr. And Mrs. Harry L. Brown, Miss Cruchfield, Gen. R. L. Hoxie Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Milton, Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Dennis, Mrs. Irwin, D. L. Taylor, J. J. Maher, Whitman Taylor, M. Hart, F. J. Noland, Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Farnam, Mrs. Wm. Monypeny, Mrs. R. L. Beckwith, W. S. Weed, Mrs. J. V. Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Ogden, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Budd, Mrs. C. C. Williams, Franklin Cox, H. R. Reed, J. B. Wilbur, Madam Wilbur, Mrs. W. L. Brown. February 25, 1910 Local Notes. Crowds of people are daily enjoying the baths at the Casino. February 26, 1910 At the Casino. At the Casino the following program of water sports has been arranged for tonight: Fancy diving. Prof. Conroy; shower dive by boys, egg race, front and backward somersault from the balcony by O. OP. Goode, candle race, trapez dive forward by Harry Evans, one length of tank for juniors; trapeze dive backwards by N. Leonardi, tub race, trapeze flying squirrel dive by N. Leonardi, relay race with four boys on team, rafter dive by Sam McDaniel. March 1, 1910 Delightful Tea. Among the pretty social affairs occurring last week was the very delightful tea at which Mrs. Murray W. Seagears entertained a number of friends in honor of Dr. James R. Angell, president of the University of Michigan, who is a distinguished guest of the Hotel Alcazar. The roof garden of the Hotel Alcazar was the scene of this pretty tea. With its number of potted palms and ferns and lovely flowers this proved an ideal setting for the delightful affair. At the daintily appointed table, centered with an exquisite arrangement of carnations, Mrs. G. M. Fletcher poured tea. Among the guests were Dr. James R. Angell, Mrs. A. C. Angell, Admiral and Mrs. Schley, Dr. and Mrs. Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. Hewson, Mrs. Kellogg, Miss Kellogg, Mrs. Marcotte, Mrs. Dickman, Mrs. Saunders Lewis, Mrs. Lawton, Gen. And Mrs. Hardin, Mr. and Mrs. Meigs, Mr. Lightfoot, Mr. Norris williams and Gen. Wherry. March 8, 1910 Water Sports at the Casino. Among the many attractions that St. Augustine offers the winter visitor is the Casino with its ever-varying program of water sports. A large assembly witnessed these Saturday evening as presented by Prof. Conroy and the water brownies. A number of thrilling feats were performed and were greeted with enthusiastic applause by the spectators. Among these were the shower dive from the balcony, backward dive from the balcony and the trapez dives. The candle race in which each contestant endeavored to swim the length of the pool holding a lighted candle in his mouth was watched with much interest. The tub race created much merriment and the winner in this received much applause. After the water sports the usual Saturday evening dance was enjoyed by a large number of those present. The Casino floor is perfect for dancing, the music furnished by the Alcazar orchestra under the direction of Mr. E. J. Quiry is unexcelled and as each dance is attended by many young people these are numbered among the delightful affairs of our winter season. March 10, 1910 Barn Dance at Casino. The Elks after much endeavor have arranged to hold the annual barn dance at the Casino next Tuesday evening. There will be many new features this year. It is announced that the Liar will make another truthful appearance at the affair. March 23, 1910 Grand Concert and Cakewalk. Tonight the Casino of the Alcazar will have a splendid attraction in the great colored entertainers from New York, who have been entertaining the entire season at the Royal Poinciana Hotel at Palm Beach, Fla. This aggregation will give one of their grand concerts and cake walks. This affair will be a delightful treat for the people of St. Augustine who have never seen these clever performers, who for years have pleased thousands of people. Don't miss it, as you will later regret doing so. The opening begins at 8:30 o'clock. Seats are on sale at the offices of the Ponce de Leon and Alcazar Hotels. April 5, 1910 Mr. Wm. Kenney, accompanied by his wife, arrived at the Hotel Alcazar yesterday from Kingston, Jamaica, where Mr. Kenney has been manager this winter of the Myrtie Bank hotel. Mr. Kenney, who, it will be remembered, was assistant manager of the Hotel Alcazar last year, will be assistant manager of the Hotel Mt. Washington at Bretton Woods, N. H. this summer. Mr. and Mrs. Kenney will spend a short time here to break the monotony of the long journey home. April 8, 1910 Dance at Alcazar. The last of the pleasant informal hops to be danced this season in the parlors of the Hotel Alcazar was enjoyed last evening. This floor is perfect for dancing, the music, furnished by the Alcazar orchestra, is unexcelled, and these Thursday evening dances have been a delightful feature of social life at this hotel throughout the season. They have given pleasure not only to Mr. McAuliffs many guests in the hotel but to a number of young people of the city who were invited to attend the delightful affairs. April 11, 1910 Alcazar Closes Tomorrow After Splendid Season After one of the most successful seasons in many years the palatial Hotel Alcazar will close its doors for the winter of 1909 10 tomorrow morning after breakfast. Within a few days all of the members of the hotel staff will have left for the North and all will be quiet about the great building. Mr. William McAuliffe, the genial manager, will propbably leave Wednesday for Bethlehem, N. H., where he will spend the summer at his hotel, the Sinclair. Mr. McAuliffe has made a host of friends among the people of St. Augustine as well as among the tourist throngs this winter and under his management the hotel Alcazar has enjoyed a most prosperous winter. He has been very popular with the tourists and all hope that he will return next season. Mr. McAuliffe has had a most capable staff associated with him at the hotel and all have aided him in successfully holding the hotel service up to the very highest standard. The members of the staff will be located in various parts of the North during the summer months. Mr. F. T. Keating, the chief clerk, goes to Lennox, Mass., where he will be assistant manager of the Aspinwall. Mr. H. G. Loud, the cashier, will return north. Mr. H. A. Brooks, the asisstant cashier, will also go north but he has not decided definitely where he will spend the summer. Mrs. Brooks, who has had charge of the newstand during the winter, will accompany her husband. Mr. Frank Ames, the night clerk, will be at the Waldorf in New York city. Miss M. A. Bigelow, the stenographer, will spend the summer at Sunapee Lake, N. H. Mr. S. C. Meagher, the steward, will hold the same position with the United States Hotel at Saratoga, N. Y. Mr. F. C. Travers, the chef, will act in the same capacity with the Hotel Sinclair at Bethlehem, N. H. Mr. Dan Reardon, the head porter, will be head porter at the Oriental at Atlantic Beach. H. W. Wilkinson, the head waiter, will return north and G. W. Boyies, the head bell man, will return to his home in Virginia. April 16, 1910 Members of Orchestra Leave. Members of the Alcazar orchestra left St. Augustine for the North this morning, Mr. Edwin J. Quiry, the leader, going to Worcester, Mass., Mr. Jos. Steller to Albany, N. Y., and the Messrs. Elliott, Welling and Vose to Boston. All expect to return next season. During the past winter the music provided by the orchestra was one of the most popular features at the Alcazar and was often highly complimented by the guests of the hotel. * * * Mr. Conroy, who has had charge of the Casino during the past winter, Mr. Frank Ames, the night clerk of the Alcazar, and Mr. W. F. Babbett of the Alcazar news stand, left for the North yesterday. April 25, 1910 Mr. McAuliffe's Father Dead. News was received in St. Augustine Saturday of the death that morning of the father of Mr. Wm. McAuliffe at Haverhill, Mass. Mr. McAuliffee, who managed the Alcazar during the past season, is somewhere en route North, and an effort was made to communicate with him to notify him of his father's death. He has many friends in the Ancient City who will regret to learn the news. Hotel closes 1930. 1946 Advertisement Alcohol .25 and Cologne rubs .50 Salt rub .50 pulleys, weights, parallel and horizontal bars and punching bags. Hotel purchased by Lightner Museum of Hobbies in 1947 |
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| Carrere and Hastings Line Drawing Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Historic American Buildings Survey or Historic American Engineering Record, Reproduction Number (Ex:"HABS,ILL,16-CHIG,33-2") |
| Note in picture below the front of the building never completed. |
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| Alcazar Bridge |
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| Alcazar Courtyard Decoration Side |
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| Alcazar Courtyard Decoration Front |
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| Alcazar Park Construction New Ponce de Leon Background Library of Congress Photo |
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| Alcazar Park Casa Monica and Alcazar Background |
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| Alcazar Courtyard Walkway |
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| Alcazar Garden Today |
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| More Alcazar Garden |
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| Fountain looking toward Lightner |
| Alcazar Fountain with PDL in Background |
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| Alcazar Back |
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| Alcazar Washington Day Program New York Public Library |
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| Alcazar Valentine's Day Program New York Public Library |
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| Alcazar Parlor today's City Council Chambers New York Public Library |
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| Alcazar Floor Plan 1st Floor Library of Congress |
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| Alcazar Hotel 2nd Floor Plan Library of Congress |
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| Alcazar Hotel 3rd Floor Plan Library of Congress |