The Hotel Paisano, a cherished historic landmark in Marfa, Texas, is gearing up for a significant upgrade that is sure to delight both its loyal patrons and newcomers. Built in 1930, this iconic establishment has been an integral part of Marfa’s history, and the latest addition is set to enhance the guest experience further.
The big news was officially announced on the hotel’s Facebook page, where they shared, “If you haven’t been in a while… we have some exciting news. An elevator is coming in March of 2024!” This update promises to make the hotel more accessible and convenient for all guests.
Located at 207 N Highland, Marfa, TX, United States, the Hotel Paisano can be reached at (915) 729-3669 or via email at jettsgrill@hotelpaisano.com. For more information about the hotel and its offerings, you can visit their website at hotelpaisano.com.
The Hotel Paisano has a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1930. Designed by renowned architect Henry C. Trost and built by Charles N. Bassett, this establishment played a vital role during the 1930s and 1940s. It served as a gathering place for area cattle ranchers who came to Marfa for cattle transactions and for tourists seeking the benefits of the dry desert air in West Texas.
The journey of Hotel Paisano is peppered with historical highlights:
- October 1929 marked the groundbreaking of the Hotel Paisano, a few days before the infamous stock market crash that initiated the Great Depression. It was one of five Gateway hotels developed by Charles Bassett in El Paso, designed by the illustrious architect Henry Trost.
- In June 1930, with an army of workers, the Hotel Paisano was constructed and opened, boasting 65 rooms, each with a private bath. It quickly became known as “the most elegant hotel between El Paso and San Antonio.”
- In January 1947, Em Mallan purchased the hotel from the Bassett family and operated it successfully for the next two decades.
- The Hotel Paisano gained cinematic fame in June 1955 when Warner Brothers chose it as the headquarters for filming the classic movie “GIANT,” starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean.
- April 1960 saw the installation of a swimming pool with a diving board on the west patio of the ballroom.
- In May 1967, local rancher Frank Jones rescued the hotel from closure.
- In October 1977, the hotel changed hands and underwent partial conversion into timeshare condominiums.
- The Hotel Paisano received national recognition in August 1978 when it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the U.S. Department of the Interior.
- A period of neglect followed until March 2001 when Presidio County foreclosed on the property for back taxes, ultimately leading to its sale.
- In November 2001, the Hotel Paisano was reborn with 17 rooms available for guests.
Today, the Hotel Paisano stands as a testament to history, with 42 fully renovated rooms, including suites and original historic rooms. It offers a seasonally heated pool, 3,000 sq ft of retail and office space, a 3,000 sq ft ballroom and conference space, fitness facilities, a GIANT memorabilia room, and a restaurant and lounge with courtyard seating. The impending addition of an elevator in March 2024 is set to elevate the guest experience further and ensure that this historic gem remains a cherished destination in West Texas.
For those seeking a blend of history, luxury, and modern comfort, Hotel Paisano continues to be the perfect choice, embodying the spirit and heritage of Marfa, Texas.
