The Geiser Grand Hotel: Early History

Nestled in the heart of Baker City, Oregon, the Geiser Grand Hotel emanates a rich history that spans over a century. This architectural marvel first threw open its doors to the world during the late nineteenth century, in 1889. Over time, the hotel has etched itself into the city’s character. In 1968, it was shut down and left empty for a while, but in 1993, after years of deterioration, and near complete decay, the hotel found a second life through an extensive and meticulous restoration, and its grandeur was resurrected to shine again.

The interior decor harks back to the days of its construction, elegantly blending old-world charm with modern aesthetics. Majestic mahogany columns stand reaching up towards an extraordinarily high ceiling that shelters the hotel’s premises. Victorian-style chandeliers, intricate in design and radiant in light, hang over the room, accentuating the regal atmosphere. A piece that captures the eye of visitors is the stained glass ceiling, a spectacle of colors, casting a dreamy, ethereal glow across the entire room.

The Gold Rush Era

Back during the Gold Rush era, the Geiser Grand Hotel proudly wore the title of “the Queen of the Mines,” a testament to its opulence and splendor. It was often referenced as the most luxurious hotel nestled between the bustling cities of Portland, Oregon and Salt Lake City. And to showcase its standing in the pioneering frontier, it was equipped with the third elevator ever to be installed west of the mighty Mississippi River; a remarkable achievement of engineering for the time. The Geiser Grand Hotel, in all its grandeur, continues to be a testament to its historical significance and the architectural magnificence of its time. On a visit to Baker City, you’ll see that much of the city remains with that historic charm, and this hotel is truly the crown jewel of it all. 

Architectural Design of the Geiser Grand Hotel

The hotel is an architectural masterpiece reflecting the distinctive style of Italianate Victorian architecture. There has been some debate as to who truly designed the original structure. Some say that this grand structure was born from the creative mind of the renowned architect John Bennes, whose flair for the aesthetic and understanding of structural integrity lent the building its timeless charm. However, the Oregon Encyclopedia clarifies that the talented Bennes only arrived in Baker around 1900 and made “modifications” to the already existing structure. An antique postcard from the era declares that the hotel was originally built and owned by the Baker Brothers.

Recognizing its significant contribution to the cultural heritage, the National Register of Historic Places graciously included the hotel as a noteworthy property within the prestigious Baker Historic District.

Originally the Hotel Warshauer

Originally christened as the Hotel Warshauer, the hotel owes its inception to the business decisions made by the hotel’s proprietor, Louis F Cook. During the chilled month of November 1889, the hotel first opened its doors, marking a new chapter in Baker City’s history. 

As per the historical records from the respected Oregonian newspaper, Mr. Geiser acquired the property in 1900. In the following year, 1901, he envisioned a variety of upgrades, including the addition of another story to be added (a plan that ultimately did not come to fruition), a complete interior overhaul, and the integration of state-of-the-art conveniences and appliances of the era.

The dawn of January 1, 1902, witnessed the rechristening and grand reopening of the hotel, now wearing the proud name of Geiser Grand Hotel. Despite the sparse information on the exact modifications made by Bennes, almost all sources unanimously assign him full credit for the architectural wonder that stands today. Thus, the Geiser Grand Hotel continues to embody Bennes’ artistic genius and the rich tapestry of Baker City’s history.

Baker City Has No Poor

In the early days of the 20th century, a compelling story titled “Baker City Has No Poor” graced the pages of the Reading Eagle. The narrative unfolded against the richly appointed backdrop of the Geiser Grand Hotel, culminating in an announcement that would cement Baker City’s reputation as an enviable place. The story arrived at the conclusion that “Baker City was the most fortunate place in the country.”

As time moved forward, the Geiser Grand Hotel remained a lively stage for a myriad of intriguing episodes. A memorable incident in 1959 etched itself into the hotel’s vibrant chronicles when an ingenious clerk outwitted a pair of robbers. Leveraging her arthritis as a decoy, she persuaded the thieves to bind her loosely. Once they left, she made her escape from the loose bindings and promptly alerted the authorities, leading to the robbers’ apprehension.

Music History at the Geiser Grand Hotel

Years later, on the night of December 31, 1997, the halls of the hotel bore witness to a poignant moment in music history. Country music artist Presley Wayne Spriet delivered a heart-stirring performance that would be his last, as he tragically passed away the following day. He was found near his home, eight miles west of Baker City, dead on New Year’s Day from a gunshot to the head. 

Adding another layer of intrigue to the hotel’s captivating narrative, various reports suggest that the Geiser Grand Hotel may be haunted. These ghostly rumors, born from countless sightings, have lent the hotel an aura of mystery.