Steeped in history and elegance, the Omni Parker House Hotel stands as a testament to Boston's rich cultural heritage. For over 165 years, this iconic establishment has hosted literary giants, sports legends, and political leaders, making it not only the longest continuously operating hotel in the United States but also a living museum of American history. With its prime location at the intersection of Tremont and School Streets, the Omni Parker House is a cornerstone of Boston's social and culinary scene, offering a blend of 19th-century charm and modern amenities.
The Omni Parker House, originally known as The Parker House, was founded by Henry D. Parker in 1855. It quickly became a hub for America's literary elite, with the likes of Emerson, Thoreau, Hawthorne, and Longfellow gathering for the Saturday Club's intellectual discourse. Baseball legends Babe Ruth and Ted Williams found solace within its walls, while political figures such as Ulysses S. Grant, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and John F. Kennedy convened for pivotal meetings and events.
The hotel's proximity to Boston's Theater District made it a second home for renowned actors of the 19th century, including Charlotte Cushman and Edwin Booth. In the 20th century, stars like Judy Garland and Kelsey Grammer continued this tradition. The Omni Parker House's kitchens have contributed significantly to American cuisine, being the birthplace of the Parker House roll and serving as a training ground for world-class chefs.
Despite its modern amenities, the Omni Parker House retains its historical allure. The lobby and bar-lounges are adorned with dark wood hues, burnished bronze elevators, and walls lined with vintage American oak. The hotel's corridors double as a gallery, showcasing numerous paintings that narrate its storied past.
The intersection of Tremont and School Streets is as old as Boston itself, dating back to the settlement of the area by John Winthrop and the Puritans in 1630. The site has witnessed the evolution of Boston, from the establishment of America's first public school, Boston Latin, to the frequent visits of George Washington to local taverns. The Omni Parker House now stands where colonial history was made.
The concept of a hotel is relatively recent, with early travelers finding rest in taverns and inns. As Boston grew, lodging houses with patriotic names emerged, catering to an increasing number of visitors. It was during this time of growth that Harvey D. Parker, a young farm boy from Maine, arrived in Boston and eventually opened Parker's Restaurant in 1832, laying the groundwork for what would become the Omni Parker House.
Harvey D. Parker's vision materialized in 1855 with the construction of an Italianate-style hotel, boasting marble accents and an air of sophistication that even impressed Charles Dickens. The hotel's simple yet elegant sign, "Parker's," signaled the birth of a new era in Boston's hospitality industry.
Today, the Omni Parker House continues to be a vibrant part of Boston's landscape. It stands not only as a luxurious hotel but also as a monument to the city's history, having witnessed and contributed to the shaping of American culture. Its walls echo with the voices of the past, while its doors remain open to travelers from around the world.
Interesting stats and facts about the Omni Parker House and its significance in American history are not widely discussed. For instance, the hotel's role in culinary history extends beyond the Parker House roll; it is also the birthplace of the Boston Cream Pie, which was created by the hotel's chef, Augustine Anezin, in 1856. According to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the Boston Cream Pie was proclaimed the official state dessert of Massachusetts in 1996.
Furthermore, the hotel's political significance is underscored by the fact that it was the site of John F. Kennedy's announcement of his candidacy for U.S. Congress in 1946, as well as his bachelor party in 1953. The Omni Parker House is also where the term "Boston Cream Pie" was coined, and where the term "Scrod" was first used to describe a young cod or haddock, now a staple in New England cuisine.
For more information on the Omni Parker House's history and offerings, visit the official hotel website or explore the Boston Freedom Trail to learn about the city's revolutionary past.
Summer Outdoors and Sports Gear For the Irish Vale or Burren
When the pavement sizzles in Vegas it is time to visit the green vales of Ireland — to test out some of the latest cool outdoors and sports equipment and apparel for summer, and then off to the boulder strewn Burren in western Ireland to really put the test in rugged high gear; the Burren was never conquered by Cromwell or the Vikings.
Unlock Exceptional Savings on Seaside Getaways with Beachbooker.com
Discover a world of sun, sand, and savings at Beachbooker.com, where thousands of new Hot Rate Hotels have been added to an already extensive database of beach resorts, villas, and hotels. With a simple click, travelers can now access a vast selection of discounted beachfront accommodations without the worry of overbooking. Beachbooker.com stands out in the travel industry by offering an unparalleled inventory of merchant rate hotels, ensuring beach enthusiasts can find the perfect stay at the best price.
JW Marriott A Classy Golf Destination Resort in Las Vegas
The JW Marriott in Summerlin, a northwest suburb of Las Vegas, has a huge ceiling lobby, providing a cool, North African/Mediterranean type of desert motif. There is plentiful natural lighting and real jungly plants, making the luxury resort glow in the late afternoon like sundown on the sand dunes, when the day relents to the evening Saharan brilliant night sky.
