Historic Hotel Patten Opens its Doors in Chattanooga

News Summary

The grand opening of Hotel Patten on April 1, 1908, marks a significant milestone for Chattanooga, showcasing luxury, community spirit, and rich historical significance. With over 200 rooms and stunning design, this hotel promises to elevate the city’s status as a prominent tourist destination. Local investors and a dedicated construction team have transformed this vision into reality, embodying the city’s growing cultural landscape. The vibrant arts and historical highlights woven throughout the hotel’s design enhance its status as a cornerstone of community and business growth.

Welcome to Chattanooga: A New Era Begins at Hotel Patten!

Chattanooga is buzzing with excitement as the **official opening of the historic Hotel Patten** took place on April 1, 1908. A crowd gathered for the joyous occasion, with the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce hosting a formal reception that truly set the tone for this significant event. The warm ambiance and delightful energies displayed at the reception made it clear that this hotel is not just a place to stay but a landmark in Chattanooga’s rich history.

The Jewel of the South

The Hotel Patten didn’t just debut as any ordinary hotel; it was heralded as *“the most luxurious hotel in the South.”* Its stunning design boasts more than 200 rooms, each equipped with **private baths** and various dining options to cater to every guest’s needs and preferences. This ambitious project had an initial estimated cost of **$500,000**, which could rise to **$600,000** as the finishing touches were completed. With an aim to elevate Chattanooga’s status as both a tourist destination and a business hub in the region, the hotel marks an exciting forward leap for the city.

Local Investors, Big Dreams

Behind this grand venture stands a group of dedicated local investors, including Z.C. Patten, J.T. Lupton, and J.A. Patten. They stepped in to replace Ross Faxon, bringing a shared vision to life. The contributions of Z.C. Patten were particularly vital, as he credited the successful promotion of the hotel to an innovative idea by J.B. Pound. The hotel isn’t just another building; it represents a noteworthy investment in the community and a bright new chapter for Chattanooga.

Community and Culture

Col. H.M. LaFollette, a prominent speaker at the chamber banquet during the opening, highlighted the vibrant community and diverse culture that embodies Chattanooga. This grand opening isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s a celebration of a *cosmopolitan city* that has risen remarkably from the challenges of the post-Reconstruction era. This event reflects Chattanooga’s evolving story and its continuous achievements that unite the community.

Constructive Success

Special mention goes to George Baker Long, the skilled builder behind the Hotel Patten’s construction. With experience from his successful completion of the Elizabeth Apartments—Chattanooga’s first fireproof structure—Long’s expertise helped save the investors over **$100,000** throughout the hotel’s construction. Collaborating seamlessly with the Chickamauga Construction Company, he ensured that everything was executed with precision following the final permit approvals in August 1906.

Art and Atmosphere

One of the highlights of Hotel Patten is its stunning lobby artwork, featuring **16 historic panels created by Atlanta artist Charles Rousse**. Each panel tells a tale of bravery from Chattanooga battles, adding a layer of cultural significance to the hotel. These artistic elements not only beautify the space but also remind visitors of the rich historical tapestry woven into the city itself.

Spreading the Word

Planning for the hotel was no small feat. Its vision gained traction across the nation, as over a thousand newspapers shared the news about this exciting new development in Chattanooga. The *Hotel Patten* promises to be more than a lodging facility; it is set to become a gathering place, a networking site, and a cherished destination for visitors from near and far.

A Bright Future Ahead

As we celebrate the grand opening of the Hotel Patten, it’s evident that this magnificent establishment will usher in a new chapter for Chattanooga. The combination of luxury, community spirit, and historical pride positions the Hotel Patten as a cornerstone for tourism and business growth in the region. So, let’s raise a toast to this lively new addition and watch as Chattanooga continues to thrive!

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Additional Resources

• Times Free Press: Patten – Most Luxurious Hotel
• Wikipedia: Hotel Patten
• Times Free Press: Construction of Vaunted Hotel
• Google Search: Hotel Patten
• Chattanoogan: Hotel Patten Completed
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hotel
• Nooga Today: Chattanooga’s Oldest Businesses
• Google News: Chattanooga