| Ponce de Leon Hotel |
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| Fact Sheet: Sizes of Things: 350 feet on King Street and 450 feet on Cordova Dining Room Vaulted Center 36 feet Towers 150 feet Tanks in towers hold 8,000 gallons of water each Artesian Well – diameter 12 inches 7,000 gallons per minute 86 degrees water temperature Pressure 40 hp Water went to 20 feet Turbine water-wheel generated electricity for elevators 60,000 barrels of cement used on initial building 500 pairs lace curtains 1240 pairs blankets 1,000 large rugs 40 foot range (nine fires) 24 foot steam table large hot closet, 12 feet in height and 24 feet in length. 4 Edison direct dynamos Electric driven by 3 Arminston and Simms Engines 150,000 feet of wire (29 miles) $100,000 spent on replacing wire in 1894 15 chimneys Grand Parlor 104 feet by 53 feet Foundation 6 to 10 feet thick Court yard 150 feet square Cost of Hotel 2.5 million (1888 dollars) 400 men employed (building) pay every two weeks $6000 (building) 100 carpenters grade level to1st floor 7 feet Elevator over 50 feet – largest of its time 1st Electric clock in a public place Tropical garden on roof 1934 first year opened for Christmas 1894 50 rooms had private baths 80% of rooms had fireplaces grounds cover 6 acres building covers 4.5 acres Grand Parlor 120 feet long 90 foot square dinning room has 75 stained glass windows dome of rotunda rises 86 feet in the air foundations built of 1 part sand, 2 parts coquina shell gravel, 1 part cement fountain 150 feet square Imported 350 tons of asphalt brought by schooner, Ida Schoolcraft for street paving in 1888. In 1920 rooms to let 250 Dinning room vault centre measures 36 ft. Had shops in Peacock Alley - where people watched while the rich shopped art studio, gift shop gown shop newstand, linen shop, barber 1892 soft water was added to the Ponce de Leon Hotel from a water works that Flagler constructed outside of town. Builders and Suppliers Louis Comfort Tiffany – Interior Decorator George W. Maynard – history panel painter Virgilio Tojetti – painting in ballroom and grand parlor Superintendent of Architectural Department John W. Ingle, Architect Superintendent of Concrete Construction William Kennish Baetjer and Meyerstein Cement (importers of Hanover Portland Cement) Otis Brothers Elevator Pottier and Stymus Furniture Nelson, Matter & Company, Manufacturers of Chamber Furniture Frank A. Hall – fine bedding, mattresses, spring beds, pillows sheets, etc. Palmer & Embury – Manufacturers of Parlor, Library and Dinning-room furniture Edison Electric Company W.M. Ransom – Wrought and Cast Iron T D Whitney - Linens Russel and Erwin - Metal and Door Locks Perth Amboy – Terra Cota J. B. & J. M. Cornell – Iron work Wm. H. Jackson & Co. open fireplaces, grates, and chimney piece novelties W & J Sloane Artistic carpetings. Worthing Steam Pumping Machinery Bergmann & Co. Electrical Works The Babcock and Wilcox Co. – boilers Schneider, Campbell & Co. – artistic gas fixtures, marble statuary, porcelan The Brunsiwck-Balke-Collender Co. – billiard and pool tables Francis Morandi & Son – hotel ranges and kitchen utensils Cook and Libby – door and window frames Thomas Lemmis – plumber J. L Brush – Master mason C Grauba – Forman of framers Jo’s Asrams – Blacksmith F. H. Baldwin Engineer mixer Daniel Dull of New York drilled well James Manning, night watchman George W. Maynard Murals in the Rotunda (from Charles B. Reynolds "A Tribute") Figures are Adventure, Discovery, Conquest and Civilization. Standing are the elements: earth, air, fire and water. Adventure wears a cuirass and in her helmet an eagle's crest. She holds a drawn sword. The pose is eager and alert; the features and the bearing denote reckless enterprise, courage, readiness to encounter peril, and the resolution that overcomes. The emblems are arrows radiating in different directions. Discovery is robed in drapery of the blue of the sea. In her right hand is held a globe, the other rests upon a tiller. The pose of the head and the far-reaching gaze are as if with swelling heart she were surveying the outstanding expanse of a newly-revealed continent. The emblems are sails. Conquest, clad in martial red, with helmet and cuirass, firmly grasps an upright sword, significant of might and war-won supremacy. The look in her face is of exultant mastery, grim consciousness of power, and and purpose inexorable. On the background are daggers. Civilization is clothed in white and wears a crown. In her lap is an open book, symbol of knowledge. Her face has the repose of dignity and benevolence. The background reveals the repeated figure of the Cross, suggesting the civilizing influences of Christianity. The symbol of the Golden Fleece here shown has reference to the Order of the Golden Fleece, of which Philip II became Grand Master in 1555, and by virtue of the office assumed sovereignty over the Low Countries and other States. Thomas Hasting on his creation of the women holding up the rotunda - "They have the merry, michievous faces of Spanish danseuses and seem to think nothing of the great load they are bearing." Inlaid on floor at the head of the broad stairs leading to the Ponce de Leon Dinning Room: Who’er has traveled life’s dull round, Whene’er his stages may have been, May sigh to thine he still has found His warmest welcome at an inn. Poem written by William Shenstare on Windowpain of the Red Lion and Inn at Henley-On-the-Thames Twenty-Nine Miles of Wire The only portion of the old plant that was not disturbed was the engine and dynamos. There are four Edison machines of forty-five kilowatt each and they are driven by three Arminston & Sims engines—two of sixty horse power and one of 120 horse power. The old system of lighting was by the ordinary concealed wires, running under the floors and inside the walls, either singly or in great masses, as the conditions chanced to make it necessary. Now the wires, which are of the okonite variety and of a particularly high grade, made to order especially for the Ponce de Leon, are carried through the immense structure by what is known as the interior conduit system—each wire in a separate tube or pipe. These tubes have an armor of brass and are lined with a highly insulating material, the exact composition of which is known only to the patentee and the manufacturer. The main “Feeders” have an outside diameter of one and a quarter inches and the large cables which transmit the light from the dynamos to the smaller wires are twenty-six in number and are all the way from 200 to 700 feet in length. There are in all over 117,000 feet of interior conduits—about twenty-two miles—and 150,000 feet of wires—nearly twenty-nine miles. Significant Dates – 1885 December 1 Groundbraking 1887 May 30 Completed 1888 January 6 Pullman cars leave New York containing 200 officers and help for opening the hotel plus the band. 1888 January 10 First opening 1934 First Time open for Christmas 1967 April 5 Final Dinner Dance 1967 May Hotel closes 1967 September Flagler College opens Opening Day City Medal for Flagler Monday afternoon, Mr. B. Genovar representing the native citizens of this city, met Mr. Flagler at the Ponce de Leon, and, in a fitting speech presented him with a neat morocco case containing a heavy solid gold medal, on the reverse side of which was engraved a representation of the City Gates, and on the reverse was inscribed the following: To H. M. Flagler, From the Natives of St. Augustine, Our gates will always be open, And a hearty welcome extended To the progressive spirit of the New “Ancient City.” January, 10th, 1888 Accompanying the medal was a copy of the address beautifully illuminated in scarlet and gold on a card four by nine inches on which was a fac simile of the Spanish coat of arms, and the old Cathedral. The address was as follows. “Mr. Flagler: It fills my heart with pride and pleasure to have the honor of saying to y9u that as a native of the old town, I have been delegated by my countrymen—the descendants of the first white settlers in Florida, and compatriots of him who first planted, in 1512, the banner of civilization on this continent, and whose memory you have honored in the erection of this magnificent palace—to convey to you their profound appreciation of your unwearied and constant interest in their present and future welfare, and their kindest wishes for your future happiness and a long and happy life, and that the name of H. M. Flagler may live forever! “Accept, sir, from the native population of St. Augustine, this little token, with all its meaning. “And now, sir, accept also my sincerest individual thanks for your many personal courtesies to myself.” Quote from Thomas Hastings from original opening: "I only realized that the work of brains and hands was mine no longer, that when I leave on the morrow I bid it goodbye, and it is saddened as though parting from a loved child." Description of Osborn Dunlap Seavey He has a high appreciation of the humorous, and a vein of his own which is indescribable. In height Mr. Seavey is about five feet seven or eight inches, is of a complexion approaching the blond, has blueish-grey eyes, wears a full beard, and is a little inclined to be stout. His address is the finest possible, and his dress is always stylish and in the very best taste. To great executive ab8ility is added that measure of bonhomme and companionableness which make the perfect hotel man. Under his management the Ponce de Leon cannot fail to be a success. January 10th Opening Dinner: At precisely 12 minutes past 5:00 this afternoon a special train carrying the passengers of the vestibuled train from Jacksonville arrived at St. Augustine. The thirty passengers were brought in 2 parlor cars, the “Governor Bloxham” and the “Governor Perry”, having made the run in 57 minutes. In less than 5 minutes they were rolling rapidly in carriages down Cordova Street in clouds of dust, all eager to get a glimpse of the most wonderful inn yet built. It was dark, and the Hotel Ponce de Leon was brilliantly lighted by electricity. As the carriatges turned sharply into the private driveway, the expressions of wonder and admiration burst involuntarily from their lips. The carriages moved slowly through the great arched porte cochere. The Spanish “Bien Venido” greeted the guests from the arched ceiling of the vestibule. After being assigned to rooms and inspecting the rotunda and the beauty of the place, the newly arrived guests walked in to dinner. The dining hall under the electric light bring out wonderfully the colors is undoubtedly the most beautiful ever designed. Mr. H. M. Flagler and a small party of friends occupied a table in the western extension; the other guests were seated at tables nearby. A party of 80 invited guests were present. At 8:00 o’clock an impromptu concert was given in the grand dining hall. Mr. Flagler was the constant recipient of congratulations upon his wonderful achievements. Mr. Carrere and Mr. Thomas Hastings, the architects, were also the objects of many laudatory expressions and bore their honors modestly and benignly. Messrs. McGuire and McDonald were receiving congratulations all through the evening. The reception closed at 10:00 o’clock, and by 11:00 the great hotel was quiet. The Grand Ball – January 12, 1888 On Thursday evening the first grand ball of the season, properly speaking, was given at the Ponce de Leon Hotel, and was a brilliant and magnificent affair. Rarely if ever before has any social affair in the South equaled this one in splendor. Manager O. D. Seavey of the Ponce de Leon, was the host under whose auspices the ball was given, and about 1,000 guests respeonded to the invitation extended by him. The building and the grounds were brilliantly illuminated in honor of the occasion, and never has the Ponce de Leon shone so resplendently. In addition to the electric lights in the court, there were hundreds of tiny globes of colored glass twinkling on the margin of every path way and flower bed; gorgeous Chinese lanterns were swung from every arch, and the central fountain was illuminated by colored electric lights. Over the entrance door shone an illuminated motto of welcome—Bien Venido (Good Welcome.) The dining hall was used as a ball room, and not only the main apartment, but the alcoves were given up to the dancers. A raised platform at either end of the room was furnished with luxurious seats for those who wished to view the splendid spectacle without participating in the dancing. The arrangement of all the details of decoration and convenience was conducted by Mr. M. Joyce, who was the master of ceremonies for the occasion. His arduous duties in this capacity were lightened by the assistance of half a dozen young gentlemen who acted as floor managers. Everything, it is needless to say, passed off without friction and without jar. Supper was served at 10:30 o’clock. It was a buffet lunch, prepared by Chefs Campazzi and Counetti, and was served in the two north dining rooms. It was a perfect achievement in that branch of art, and at its conclusion dancing was resumed and was continued until a late hour. Bridal Chamber A multitude of attractions. Perhaps the most modern is the bridal chamber of the Poonce de Leon, occupation of which costs forty dollars a day, and for which there is such an active demand, that one hundred bides were turned away last winter. Taggart’s Times, February 14, 1892. Yearly Opening Ceremony: Explosion of bomb in the west tower Orchestra south loggia played Star Spangled Banner Great Gates rose First guest from 1888 to 1894 Captain Le Roy Managers: 1888 - 1893 Osborn D. Seavey 1894 Charles W. Bixford 1895 Clarence B. Knott Mr. Robert Murray, Steward 1897 - 1928 Robert Murray 1931 - 1941 Bernard Howe 1945 B J Kackel 1946 Gillis and Murray 1949 Paul Hassell 1950 - 1951 Edward Flather, Jr. 1959 - 1963 J Kilbourne Hyde 1967 - 1968 Jack Yates Other Officers: 1888 - 1889 Count Prokaski - Headwaiter William M. Bates - Cashier S. Sterling - Mail Clerk Mr. Campbell - Assistant Clerk Charles Testera - Steward W L. Ormrod - Night Clerk Charles B Townshend - night watchman (fell down elevator shaft and was killed) Mr. Dale - head gardner Mr. Sam H. Sheridan - billiard rooms Edward Quigley - waiter (shot by night watchman - singing "Marching Through Georgia" Captain Wm. Archer - chief of Dectives Frank Moore - PDL Coat room Billy McDermott - Head porter Albert George trombone Charles P. Love Xylopcalme Walter B. Rogers - cornet 1889-1890 F. G. Thompson - headwaiter Romer Gillis - cashier Paul Morrill - billard parlors Signor Jovine - Italian Tenor Annie McKay - housekeeper 1892-1893 N. Riggi - chef James Nolan - wine stewart Michael Hellecher - head porter Annie McKay - housekeeper Henry Miller - parlor and ladie's waiting room 1893-94 E. W. McGuire Chief Engineer John Davis Assistant Engineer A. T. Best - Electrician Charles Smith - Carpenter M. McMahon - Chief of Detectives F. Page - Detective Dan Ryan - Detective Frank Edwards - Detective Jay Cosgrove - Detective Romer Gillis - register Knott - Cashier J.P. Greaves - Assistant Cashier W. R. Moses - Keys H. L. Henry - bookeeper V. D. PArker - stenographer H. W. Warner - night clerk Charles Bickford - Steward John Corbett - Bartender Louis Zerega - Chief James Noliner - Assistant Bartender G. Butler - Assistant Bartender John Watson - Assistant Bartender Max Uriass - Pastry Schief Robert Klesiling - Bread George W. Boyken - Bell Captain M. Kelcher - Head Porter Annie McKay - Housekeeping 1897 James R Langster, register George Gibbs, cashier J R. Thurber assistant cashier Daniel C Kenn, key dest. Alfred Kappelan, assistant Annie McKay, housekeeper Hance Howard, head bellman R Traffe, printer James L. Duffy billiard room Michall Kelliber, head porter Charles Barry, wine steward 1898 Valere Braguehai, chef 1899 A W Hodgeon - clerk M. C. Cleveland - assistant clerk George W. Gibbs - cashier Frank Wilson assistant Cashier F. L. Castner - mail clerk W. J. Fleming - key clerk H. W. Warner - night clerk Annie McKay - housekeeper Frank Thompson - stweart Valere Braguehai, chef Andrew Dellera, assistant chef George Negri, roast cook Gugenbitt, butcher H. Koops, head pastry dept 1900 Am Hodgdon, desk M. J. Flemming assistant George W. Gibbs cashier JH. F. Wilson assistant cashier D. C. Flenn, mail and keys M. Rawson, assistant mail and keys H. W. Warner night desk Frank Thompson, headwaiter Orchestra August Eisner Chas. Lauette chef Ann McKay, housekeeper Valere Braquehais, chef 1901 Simeon Leland, chief clerk W J Fleming, chief clerk George W. Gibbs, cashier J. F. Wilson, asst cashier D. C. Fern, mail O Rawson, keys H. W. Warner, night clerk W M Hotcheiss, private secretary and clerk Hance Howard , headbellman C. W. Shepard, bookeeper Ann McKay, housekeeper Frank Bacon, steward Frank Thompson, headwaiter William Decater, hats dinning room Valere Braquehais, chef Max Scheider, pastry cook Pro Baxman Orchestra Baseball O. D. Seavey brought with him to St. Augustine a passion for sports, including baseball. Frank Thompson, headwaiter at the Argyle Hotel at Babylon Long Island, organized the team from the surrounding hotels; he became the headwaiter at the Ponce de Leon Hotel. The Cuban Giants had their start in 1885. It is probable that they spent the ‘86 winter in Cuba that gave rise to their Cuban Giant name. By the second season of the hotel they were the waiters of the Ponce de Leon and Alcazar and played ball for the hotel. The January 17 game was advertised as the Ponce de Leon employees playing against the Alcazar employees. Both teams had members of the Cuban Giants. At the end of 1889 Flagler had built a baseball park. It is located near where Rick’s Muffler shop is today. The grounds were 400 feet wide and 520 feet deep which was greater than the average size in the country of 300 by 400 feet. The grounds were sod with the same good thick grass that was used on the Ponce de Leon and Alcazar grounds. The baselines were made of clay. The fence for the outfield was 12 feet high. The grandstand could seat over 500 people and had a press and scorers balcony on line with the pitcher. There were also two private boxes that could accommodate an additional 20 persons. Al Spaulding, of Chicago, was a consultant on the project. On January 23 A. G. Spaulding, his wife, and Cap Anson Cap Anson (1852-1922) was the manager of the Cubs from 1879-1898. He was regarded as the foremost figure of baseball in the 19th century. He was the first man to get 3000 hits. He was the first manager to have pre-season training. The sad irony of him playing his team in St. Augustine was that he was also one of the persons responsible for making sure that white teams did not play black teams and keeping blacks off white teams. were guests of the Ponce de Leon Hotel. Spalding and Anson leased the Ponce baseball fields and the Chicago baseball team took possession of it on February 10 with the condition that the St. Augustine team had one day a week to play. By 1892 Florida had a baseball league. Mr. W. R. Harrington who started the four companies organized this league: Tampa, Ocala, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine. He then leased the Ponce de Leon grounds for two and three games a week. Harry Wright was going to bring down the Philadelphias and give an exhibition game. The St. Augustine team consisted of York, Ryan, Wilbur Gard, Andrea, “Mollie” Kurtz, Dolph Bennett, Dr. Foster,Hill, Healy, Adams, and Lewis. Music at the Hotels The central figures in hotel entertainment in the 1880s and 1890s were the hotel musicians. They were the constant entertainment of the hotels providing both concert music and dance music. The most noted player of the orchestra was the cornet player. When the laundry was finished it became the dorm for the musicians as well as the women who washed the hotels laundry. Joyce’s Military Band and Orchestra of twenty-five pieces opened the hotel. M. J. Joyce’s bother, Thomas H., was the conductor of the Orchestra. The band had uniforms expressly for the Ponce de Leon. They had caps and navy blue jackets trimmed with gold tinsel. The caps had a Ponce de Leon shield on the front. Albert George played the trombone, Gus Wagner played the Bassoon, Tomaso LuFuri, flute, Lufert the violin, Louis Pandent, French horn, Walter Rogers, the cornet, Charles P. Lowe played the xylophone, Hagedon the harp, and Albert George, baritone singer, also played the trombone. Albert George was the first baritone singer in 1888. In 1889 the Italian tenor Signor Jovine was part of the entertainment at both the Hotel Cordova and the Ponce de Leon Hotel. He sang at dinner and through special programs. He had been in Campinini’s production of Othello at the Academy of Music in New York in 1887. By 1892 the Brooks Orchestra was the central feature of the Ponce hotel. In 1893 members of the Brooks Orchestra included Richard Heise on the violin and mandolin; George Hubert Clarke, cornet; Leopold Hoffman, cello; Frank Holten, trombone; Henry Heideburg on the flute and piccolo; E. A. Wall, clarion; Charles Lowe, xylophone. In 1894 Charles Higgins was the first violinist, Earnest Clarke, trombone; Max Adamsky, drums, symbols, and xylophone; Albert Klutt, zither and cello; Henry Heideburg was still on the flute and piccolo, and again George Hubert Clarke, cornet. In 1894 Brooks orchestra was sixteen pieces. In the Alcazar Ernest Slenker was the conductor. Joseph Kaprelak was the clarinetist; Frank Petit, flutist, and Leu Cordess was the cornet. In 1893 Joseph Kaprelak was still the clarinet player, Frank Petit, flutist, and Leu Cordess was on the cornet. In 1894 Ernest Slenker's Orchestra was at the Casino. The Alcazar was rooms only that year. The orchestra featured Max Adamsky, piccolo; Louis Egner, viola; Fernando Ford, violin; Guy Ruyarrio, 2nd violin; E. A. Walls, clarinet, Count Favelle, piccolo; A. Laurendean, oboe; A. L. Volkman, clarinet; Harlem Cordes, cornet; Steward Ripley, flute; Kolterman piano; W. H. Smith, double bass; and Herr Kludt cello and zither. In 1895, Slenker’s Orchestra moved to the Cordova The 1889 Cordova orchestra while part of the Joyce’s Military Band was called the Cordova Mandolin Orchestra. In 1893 the Cordova orchestra consisted of Rudolf Von Searpar as the pianist; Mr. George Glazzman, drums; and Henry Higgins cornet. In 1894 Rudolf Von Searpa was the pianist, Mr. George Glassman was the conductor and Henry Higgins was again on the cornet. Dinning Hall: If you looked over your head, you would see pictures of the early history of St. Augustine (painted by George W. Maynard – who painted the Library of Congress ceilings). There were also some Spanish proverbs on the ceiling. “The ass that brays the longest, eats the least.” Old friends, bacon and aged wine (Badajoz). Good wine needs no bush. It is not necessary to advertise good wine (Toledo). From the hand to the mouth the soup is lost. (Leon) The one who comes first is the leader. (Zaragdza). The sheep which cries, loses a mouthful. (Grandda). A change of pastures makes vigorous lambs. (Santander) He who gathers much saves little. (Overse) The wisest are those who are silent. (Lenida) The rear of dinning room was for use of offices. On the 2nd floor there was a room for for 2nd officers. Another kitchen to prepare food for help held an additional dinning room for band. There were two downstairs dinning rooms for African-Americans 1 male and 1 female, also two additional dinning rooms for white help. Milk Supplies In 1888 D. B. Usina supplied 600 quarts of milk per day. Where Did The Help Stay? Additional Areas: 150 additional rooms in a building called the barracks. (African-American Men ) There were 60 additional rooms in the laundry building. (African-American Women) White employees stayed in the hotel above the kitchen. Paintings in the Grand Parlor Series of 8 figures (Ladies from Shakespeare) by Jozi Arpad Koppay (four are found in the parlor Flagler College owns all eight) Morning on the Bosphorus - Frederick Arthur Bridgman (1847-1928) purchased 1886 Lady of the Harem- Edward Dubret Sultant - Edward Frederic Wilhelm Richter (1803-1884) purchased 1887 Mary Lily Kenan Flagler - Mariette Leslie Cotton Where did the rooms go? You may have noticed the declining number of rooms available over the years. Where did they go? The hotel was originally built old style with rest rooms located on each floor. Immediately upon opening and for years afterwards rooms were converted to rest rooms within the suites. Building: Exterior ornament Terra Cotta Plaster and Stucco Mosaic style Statue of Henry Flagler: The sculptor is unknown but it was created in 1902 in Rome and dedicated here in 1916. It originally was at the Railroad station, later moved to the across the street, since 1972 it is located here. However, it doesn’t mention his building the hotel…. its purpose is recognition of “the achievement of the railroad development in the State of Florida and the overseas extension to Key West”. This statue depicts Flagler as he was when he first came to St. Augustine in 1883. This statue was recently copied and there will be an identical one placed at the entrance of Whitehall, his estate in Palm Beach. 1900 February 11, 1900 Count Starzynski, of Russia, is among the latest arrivals at the Ponce de Leon. March 3, 1900 The Ponce de Leon Bellman=s ball and cake walk, which took place at Collie=s Hall last night, was a pronounced success in every respect. Beside the members there were over one hundred guests, who were handsomely entertained. Their next effort in this direction will be given at the Casino, due notice of which will be given later. March 6, 1900 The Ponce de Leon wiaters will give their twelfth annual cakewalk in the Casino, on the evening of Thursday, March 15. This will be the first big cake-walk of the year, and is sure to draw a large crowd. March 15, 1900 Mr. H. W. Warner, the genial night clerk of the Ponce de Leon Hotel, is today celebrating his ---- first birthday. The occasion was remembered in a handsome manner by the office force of the hotel and numerous other friends, who, after deluging him with congratulations, unveiled a table literally groaning under a burden of birthday souvenirs and delicacies. March 16, 1900 Ponce de Leon Garden Party. A garden party was given by guests of Ponce de Leon yesterday afternoon in the west garden, a charming spot set with palms and hedges. The scene was very gay with flying flags and pretty dresses, and the greensward was dotted with tables set for the refreshment of visitors. The orchestra played sweet and unobstrusive music, until the first heavy drops of rain caused a general scattering when every body rushed to the hotel on the broad piazzas of which the numerous tables were re-arranged and the afternoon passed very happily. March 20, 1900 Charity Ball. Elaborate preparations are going forward to render the twelfth annual Charity Ball at the Ponce de Leon a brilliant affair. The walks in the court are today being bordered with rows of tiny red, white and blue incandescent lights at least three thousand in number. March 21, 1900 Admiral Dewey and Wife. Their Approaching Visit to St. Augustine Discussed. Apartments have been engaged at the Ponce de Leon by Admiral George Dewey and Mrs. Dewey, who are expected to be here either on the evening of Saturday next or on Sunday morning. Mr. Robert Murray has caused Mr. Flagler=s suite of rooms to be put in readiness for the reception of the Admiral and his wife. This suite, which is naturally the most elaborate in the house, was used by ex-President Cleveland and Mrs. Cleveland when they visited this city several years ago. Any projected entertainment of the distinguished couple will be deferred until a consultation as to their wishes can be had with the Admiral and his wife; it being the wish of those desirous of entertaining them that they may be permitted to pass their time as pleasantly and informally as they please. It is hoped, however, that a reception may be one of the many entertainments which will be furnished. All St. Augustine is aiting to give Admiral and Mrs. Dewey a cordial reception. Palm Beach and Miami after St. Augustine, are the objective points of their trip. March 22, 1900 The Charity Ball. A Brilliant Success in All RespectsBPonce de Leon Court Ablaze. The twelfth annual charity ball for the benefit of Alicia Hospital which occured last night at the Ponce de Leon was a brilliant success the number in attendance being between four and five hundred. The court was dazzling with thousands of diminutive incandescent lights in varied hues which bordered the walks and flowerbeds. The great dining room cleared of all furniture except rows of chairs, was resplendent with handsomely gowned and beautiful women and the Ponce de Leon orchestra rendered a program of superb dance music, consisting of ten numbers. An elaborate supper menu was served in the intermission, and a delicious quality of punch was dispensed throughout the evening.. 1910 January 5, 1910 Hotel Ponce De Leon Opens for Season Portcullis To Great Tourist Palace Rises for Season Big Opening Dinner to be Enjoyed Tonight With the booming of the culvern from one of the towers, the flags fluttering to their places on the tall staffs at the blast from the bugles and the strains of stirring music from the band, the great Ponce de Leon hotel opened for the tourist season of 1910 this afternoon. Promptly at the hour of three, the great portcullis at the main entrance was raised for the winter months. At the same moment the culvern boomed out from one of the towers and the crowds waiting without poured in to inspect the palatial hostlery. Manager Robert Murray has been superintending the final preparations for the opening for two weeks or more and everything was in readiness today for the beginning of what promises to be one of the most successful seasons in the history of the hotel. The Ponce de Leon is Florida=s pride and nothing has been left undone to hold it up to just as high a standard this winter as ever. Tonight in the spacious dinning room the opening dinner of the season will be enjoyed by many invited guests from among St. Augustine=s citizens as well as by the guests of the hotel. Every preparation has been made and the hotel service from the very start will be second to none. Throngs awaited the opening gun this afternoon and as soon as the portcullis shot up at the great main entrance the crowds poured in to inspect the great hostelry. It is the custom to allow all to visit every part of the hotel and grounds on the opening day and practically every visitor to the city takes advantage of the fact to see the Ponce de Leon and there are always not a few residents of the city who are in the line of visitors. A large number registered today and with the inauguration of the winter tourist service over the Florida East Coast Railway and the opening of the Ponce de Leon the season may be said to be on in earnest. Every indication points towards the heaviest tourist travel south this year of any previous season in the history of the East Coast and there is little doubt but that the immense hotel will have an unusually large number of guests for the opening week of the season. As usual Mr. Murray has spared no effort in securing the members of his staff from among the very best and most capable hotel attaches in the country. There are a few new faces among the members of the staff this winter and all come from the best hotels of the north. Miss Annie McKay is again with the hotel this season. Mr. A. E. Conklin, formerly of the Hotel Champlain in New York, is the new room clerk. The other members of the staff are Mr. L. W. Maxson, cashier; Mr. J. E. MacQuinn, bookkeeper and assistant cashier; Mr. E. J. Morrill, night clerk; Mr. B. J. Redmond, assistant room and front clerk; Mr. Glenn A Miller, mail and front clerk; Mr. Martin W. Brazee, stenographer; Mr. N. S. Beebe, steward; Mr. Joseph Stoltz, chief; W. T. White head waiter; Hance Howard, head bellman. While the sky was overcast with clouds the weather was mild and delightfully pleasant. It was a most auspicious opening for one of the most palatial and greatest of America=s hotels. January 6, 1910 Many Guests Enjoy Ponce de Leon Opening Dinner The formal opening of the Hotel Ponce de Leon is the final announcement that St. Augustine=s tourist season has commenced in earnest. Yesterday with all in readiness for one of the most successful seasons in its history this palatial hotel, the pride of St. Augustine, and of the entire East Coast, opened its doors for the season of 1910. In the spacious dining-room last evening the opening dinner, always a brilliant social function, was enjoyed by the many guests arriving at the hotel during the afternoon and a a large number of invited guests from among St. Augustine=s residents and winter visitors. From eight until 10 o=clock the hotel orchestra played in the rotunda, and the first evening concert of the season was enjoyed. The orchestra is composed of musicians of note and is under the leadership of Prof. B. C. Shaw. Those present at the dinner, including those registering the first day are the following: Mr. And Mrs. H. M. Flagler and maid, city; Miss Kenan, city; Mr. And Mrs. W. R. Kenan, Jr., Lockport, N. Y. ........ January 24, 1910 Vanderbilts Are Here. Mr. And Mrs. Frank W. Vanderbilt were prominent New Yorkers arriving yesterday at the Hotel Ponce de Leon. They are accompanied by Mr. W. W. Whitehouse and Mr. W. T. Hoyt, also of New York city. The party will leave tomorrow for Palm Beach whither Mr. Vanderbilt=s beautiful yacht, Warrior that has been in Jacksonville harbor for the past few days has preceded them. Dinner Party. Among the pretty social affairs given at the hotel Ponce de Leon last week was the delightful dinner at which Mr. J. H. Hewson of New York city was the host. The table, which was in a wing of the beautiful main dinningroom, was centered with a mass of exquisite pink roses and ferns. Covers were laid for eight guests. Those entertained were Mrs. Flagler, Mrs. Fletcher, Mrs. Seagears, Dr. and Mrs. Anderson, Mr. Thorne and Mr. H. S. Stewart. January 28, 1910 Local Notes Tennis will be very popular here with the visitors this winter and the courts of the Ponce de Leon and Alcazar will be in commission daily. A fine court for the Ponce de Leon grounds is one of the improvements of this winter and the Alcazar court has been repaired and is ready for the hotel guests. February 16, 1910 Hotel Personals Prominent English people who will spend some time in St. Augustine as guests of the Hotel Ponce de Leon are the Duke and Duckhess of Manchester. They are accompanied by Mr. E. Zimmerman of Detroit, father of the Duchess. February 18, 1910 For Mrs. Booth. Among the elaborate social affairs which the Hotel Ponce de Leon has been the scene of this week was the delightful dinner given Wednesday evening by Mr. And Mrs. J. H. Hewson complimentary to Mrs. Fisher Booth, of New York City. Mrs. Booth is a daughter of Mr. Thorne, who spends each winter in St. Augustine as a guest of the Ponce de Leon. The dinner was given in one of the small private dining rooms and covers were laid for twenty guests. The table was centered with an exquisite arrangement of pink roses, and the ladies of the party received bouquets of these beautiful blossoms as favors. Those present were: Mr. And Mrs. Fisher Booth, Dr. and Mrs. A. Anderson, Mr. And Mrs. Albert Lewis, Admiral and Mrs. Schley, Mr. And Mrs. Lawton, Gen. And Mrs. Hardin, Mr. And Mrs. Dickerson, Miss Bigelowe, Mrs. Fletcher, Mr. Percy Van Ness, Mr. Norris Williams, Mr. Thorne, and Mr. And Mrs. Hewson. Hotel Personals. Mr. George Ade, the noted poet and novelist, is among yesterday=s prominent arrivals at the Hotel Ponce de Leon. Mr. Ade, whose home is in Brook, Ind., has been spending the past few weeks at Palm Beach and will now make a visit of some duration in St. Augustine. February 21, 1910 Prominent Visitors. Prominent among the recent arrivals at the Hotel Ponce de Leon are the Messrs. Gene Schwartz, and Jack Welch, who have been guests of the Hotel Breakers at Palm Beach for some little time past. Mr. Schwartz is a musical composer of note and among his popular songs that have become most familiar are AHis Belinda,@ AMr. Dooley,@ and AMy Irish Molly, Oh.@ Mr. Welch is known as a most successful playwright and writer of short sketches. Some of his most successful plays were brought into prominence when presented by Miss May Irwin, the Rogers Brothers, and Pete Daly. Bridge Party Gen. And Mrs. M. D. Hardin, who are as usual spending the winter in St. Augustine as guests of the Hotel Ponce de Leon entertained a number of friends Friday evening at a delightful bridge party in the upper rotunda of the hotel. The beautiful rotunda or sun-parlor as it is called, was the scene of a very pleasant bridge party given by the management of the hotel the previous evening, and the exquisite decorations of palms, smilax, and many vari-colored electric lights arranged for that event formed the pretty setting for Gen. And Mrs. Hardin=s pleasant affair. The bridge-players were seated at eight tables, and all enjoyed the interesting game to the utmost. There were also two tables at which the game of hearts was played. Those winning prizes at the bridge tables during the evening were: Mrs. Fletcher, Mrs. Smith, Miss Smithhurst, Mr. Stuyvesant, Mr. Stewart, Mr. Reginald White, Gen. Wherry, and Mr. Newson. At the heart tables Miss Dorothy Kelley and Mrs. Laimbeer were awarded prizes. February 28, 1910 Prominent Party Here. Mr. Frank A. Munsey, the noted author and magazine publisher of New York City has arrived in St. Augustine for his accustomed visit here as a guest of the Hotel Ponce de Leon. Mr. Munsey is accompanied by a party of friends who are very prominent Atlanta people. These friends are Major John F. Hanson, president of the Central of Georgia railway; Mr. and Mrs. John D. Little, Miss Laura Payne, all of Atlanta, and Miss Sophie Meldrum, of Savannah, one of that city=s most popular girls and society belles. March 2, 1910 Ponce de Leon Tea. The ladies of the Hotel Ponce de Leon will give a series of delightful teas during the month of March. The first of these pretty affairs will be given tomorrow afternoon in the beautiful drawing-room of the hotel, which has been the scene of so many charming social occasions. March 5, 1910 Ponce de Leon Tea. The ladies of the Hotel Ponce de Leon gave a delightful tea Thrusday afternoon in the drawing-room of the hotel, and the beautiful room was thronged with guests who enjoyed greatly the pretty affair. Mrs. M. D. Hardin, and Mrs. J. H. Hewson poured tea at the daintily appointed table which was exquisitely decorated in yellow. Jonquils and yellow jassamine were the flowers used, and the dainty color motif was prettily carried out in the cakes and bon-bons served. This was the first of a series of weekly teas to be given throughout the month of March by the ladies of the Ponce de Leon. March 17, 1910 Delightful Garden Party Enjoyable Event Given in Ponce de Leon Palm Gardens. The social event of yesterday was the garden party, given in the west palm gardens of the Hotel Ponce de Leon. No more attractive spot could have been chosen for the occasion than these gardens with their stretch of velvety lawn, beautiful palms, and tropical shrubbery which render them an ideal setting for so charming an affair. The Ponce de Leon orchestra discoursed sweet music throughout the afternoon, and this added immeasurably to the pleasure of all those attending. The pretty decorated tables were presided over by gracious ladies exquisitely dressed and, as during the hours designated for the affair the garden was thronged with guests, the many lovely fancy articles displayed and the delicious refreshments served found ready sales, a marked success was achieved financially. This is most gratifying to the ladies in charge as it supplies the King=s Daughters with a goodlysum wherewith to carry on their charitable work. Many prominent and influential ladies of the city identified themselves with the affair and thus insured its being a social as well as financial success. Mrs. A. Anderson, Mrs. Lawton, Mrs. E. Reynolds, Miss Gilbert, Miss Burroughs and Miss Gigelow were in charge of the fancy work table, and disposed most successfully of the many exquisite hand-made aritcles alluringly displayed. Mrs. J. A. Enslow, Mrs. L. A. Rohde, Mrs. Jarvis, and Mrs. R. J. Oliver served ice cream and cake, while the tea table was presided over by Mrs. J. E. Ingraham, Mrs. L. J. Hopkins, Mrs. J. T. Dismukes and Miss Kellogg. The coffee table was in charge of Mrs. E. Trott, Mrs. J. F. Dodge. And Miss Leone Rood while Mrs. A. M. Terwilligar, and Mrs. Arnold Goldy served lemonade. The flower booth, which was especially lovely with its hundreds of beautiful spring blossoms and exquisite cut flowers artistically arranged in vases and baskets of tinted straw, was in charge of Mrs. G. M. Fletcher and Miss Lindsley. The fruit table was most attractive with its effective display of fruits and the quantities of pear and plum blossoms used in its decorations. This was presided over by Mrs. Bevan, Mrs. Kirtland and Mrs. A. E. Carey. At the candy tables Mrs. Darrow, Mrs. W. w. Dewhurst, Mrs. Collins, Miss Floyd dispensed the sweets. Mrs. H. W. Davis, Mrs. W. B. Grosh, Mrs. W. Snow and Miss Sherman sold the many dainty aprons displayed at the apron table. The conveners of the party were Mrs. D. L. Dunham, Mrs. Murray W. Seagears, and Mrs. F. F. DeCrano, and the entrance to the garden were in charge of Mrs. Geo. W. Gibbs, and Mrs. Rasmussen. The total receipts of the affair are most satisfactory, and as the exact amount cleared and the receipts of each table is not yet known, a list of these will be published later. April 4, 1910 Hotel Ponce de Leon Will Close Tomorrow Morning After one of the best tourist season in many years the palatial Hotel Ponce de Leon will close for the winter of 1909-1910 tomorrow morning with breakfast. The great portcullis at the entrance will lower, the banners and flags will flutter from their places on the flagstaffs and all will be quiet for the summertime until the next season opens in the late fall. Mr. Robert Murray, the manager, has made the great hotel even more popular than ever this season and the magnificent hostelry has been well filled through the busy months of the season. His own ability combined with the careful attention of his well selected staff has made the hotel very popular with the tourist public. The members of the hotel staff soon leave and will be found at the following places during the summer season: Mr. L. W. Maxon, cashier; manager of the Royal Muskoka hotel at Lake Rosseau, Ontario. Mr. A. E. Conklin, chief room clerk; at his summer home at Amenia, N. Y. Mr. B. J. Redman, assistant room clerk; room clerk at the Mount Pleasant Hotel at Bretton Woods, N. H. Mr. J. Edmonds MacQuinn, bookeeper; cashier of the Equinox house at Manchester, Vermont. Mr. Glen A. Miller, assistant clerk; cashier at the Royal Muskoka. Mr. M. M. Brassee, secretary to Mr. Murray; secretary to Mr. Maxon at the Royal Muskoka. W. T. White, head waiter; at Champlain, N. Y. Messrs. E. J. Morrill, the night clerk; Joseph Stolz, the chef, and M. J. Keller, the head porter, will all return north. Closing: Final Dinner Dance April 5, 1967 |
| Pictures of the Ponce de Leon Hotel More full views Entrance Rotunda Grand Parlor News Article of 1889 opening with picture of band on loggia |
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| 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") |