Flashback San Diego — Oct. 15, 1910: U.S. Grant Hotel opens downtown
Image of the hotel after opening its doors in Photo courtesy of Marriott International On Oct San Diego unveiled a new era of elegance and ambition with the grand opening of the U S Grant Hotel After five years of meticulous construction and a million assets this architectural marvel replaced the historic Horton House marking a substantial transformation in the city s landscape The following image is of Horton House which was built in and later torn down in to build THE US GRANT Hotel Photo courtesy of Marriott International Designed by architect Harrison Albright the hotel stood as a testament to modern engineering featuring a steel-and-concrete framework that made it one of the greater part fire- and earthquake-resistant buildings of its era Its rooms including with private baths two swimming pools and a rooftop ballroom set a new standard for luxury in San Diego Grand staircase in Photo courtesy of Marriott International The hotel s inception was a collaborative effort When Ulysses S Grant Jr son of President Ulysses S Grant discovered himself short of the million needed for construction San Diego voters stepped in contributing the necessary funds to bring the project to fruition Image of the hotel during construction in Photo courtesy of Marriott International The grand opening was a spectacle attracting thousands from across the country The adjacent Horton Plaza Fountain designed by architect Irving Gill and funded by banker Louis J Wilde was completed the same year adding to the area s elegance and charm Over the decades the U S Grant Hotel has hosted numerous dignitaries and celebrities witnessed essential events and undergone various transformations In contemporary times it stands as a testament to San Diego s rich history and architectural heritage Whether you re a history enthusiast or only seeking a touch of luxury the U S Grant Hotel offers a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era Sources Marriott International San Diego History Center
