In the early 1900s, talk began in Boulder about building a large, modern hotel to attract visitors as they traveled through the West. Thanks to the efforts of these citizens, the vision was realized and the Hotel Boulderado was built.
Rather than have a single investor run the project, a drive to raise $100,000 was held in 1906, with shares on sale for $100 each. After the funds were raised, a meeting was held to elect directors for the project and to choose a site for the hotel. It was decided to build on the northwest corner of 13th and Spruce.
There was considerable controversy surrounding the naming of the hotel. Since it was to be a large, luxurious hotel that would hopefully be around for a long time, some thought the proposed “Boulderado” blending of Boulder and Colorado was laughable. W.R. Rathvon, who came up with the name, thought it was unique, although another citizen remarked that the name reminded him of “a college yell”. Despite some opposition, the name ultimately won out over its competion.
The Boulderado Hotel was opened on New Year's Eve of December 31, 1908, and served its first dinner with 200 guests in attendance. Fine furnishings and large rooms were characteristics of the hotel and many people hoped it would bring Boulder prosperity.
Since then, the hotel has remained open but changed ownership several times. Lately, much attention has been paid to renovating the hotel and restoring it to its original appearance.
References: Legend of a Landmark: A History of the Hotel Boulderado by Silvia Pettem, Hotels of Boulder, Colorado by Sanford Charles Gladden, Hotel Boulderado and the Carnegie Branch Library for Local History.
