Monday, August 13, 2007

1887



This second photo of the Eaton Hotel shows a date on the building, of 1887. When built it was called the Carey Hotel, later it was purchased and renamed The Eaton. In it's early days it was among the grandest of hotels in the midwest. It's also an historical site where Carrie Nation and some of her followers "busted up the bar" inside this hotel, in effort to shut it down. She had began her efforts to close down liquor establisments with the help of the law, but later took matters (and a hatchet) into her own hands. She would swing the hatchet (and throw objects) at fixtures, paintings, mirrors, glassware, etc - trying to cause enough damage to force the bars, or saloon, to close.

Alcohol was big business and was growing throughout America. Saloons would find ways to entice new customers to come in and drink. If interested in reading more about Carrie Nation, click here: http://www.kshs.org/cool2/hammer.htm

4 comments:

Ming the Merciless said...

Love the colors and details on the building.

Wanda said...

Yes, I love old buildings. This one has a unique character..colors are great too.

Mary Stebbins Taitt said...

I love old buildings too. Interesting story.

Annie said...

That's a grand building, Wendy. I wonder, did Carrie Nation win? Is Wichita dry today?