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In the early part of
the 20th century, watercolor artist Thomas Moran spent many
nights at the Weatherford hotel while he completed his sketches of
western landscapes. These works of art were partially responsible for
moving Congress to preserve such places as the
Grand
Canyon and
Yellowstone as
National Parks.
Over the
years this historic building served a number of purposes, include
Flagstaff's first telephone
exchange company, a number of restaurants, a theater, a radio station
and a billiard hall. Today, it has been fully restored and again
caters to
Flagstaff travelers
Along with its rich
history, the
Hotel
Weatherford
is also said to be called home to a couple of resident ghosts. The Zane Grey Ballroom, complete with its stained glass windows and
antique Brunswick bar from Tombstone, is said to be the site where at
least one of Weatherford’s ghosts is said to most often appear. In this beautiful ballroom the ghostly woman has often been spied
floating across the room. On other occasions, she is said to
dart from one side of the room to the other. Other phenomenon in the
ballroom includes the light over the pool table that seemingly sways
of its own accord and the sounds of whispers and voices coming from an
otherwise empty bar.
Apparently, there the
ghosts of a long ago bride and groom also haunt the hotel. According
to the legend, the honeymoon couple was murdered in Room 54 of the
hotel back in the 1930s. On at least one occasion, an employee
who was staying in the hotel, awoke in the middle of the night to find
a bride and groom sitting on the foot of the bed. Today, the
room has been turned into a storage closet, but that hasn’t stopped
the ghostly pair, as guests have often reported seeing the couple
enter the room. Staff often report hearing their names being
called out by an unseen spirit while on the fourth floor as well as
feeling a presence standing behind them.
While at the historic
Hotel
Weatherford,
you may very well "see” a ghost, but if not, you are sure to enjoy the
authentic Old West Hotel, old fashioned rooms, and delightful lounges.
Kathy Weiser/Legends
of America, © November, 2005
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