When one thinks of Oklahoma, he or she probably thinks cowboy hats, waving wheat, and F5 tornados. He or she probably doesn't imagine it as real visitors' attraction. However, OKC is quickly redefining itself by blending the old with the new and they are doing a fabulous job of it.
The Skirvin Hotel, for instance was originally opened in 1911 and has housed guests such as Nixon and Truman. In 1988 its doors closed and remained that way for 15 years. In fact, when I moved to Oklahoma back in '97 the Skirvin, although beautiful, was vacant and basically in shambles. I have read in some places that it is/was haunted...that is, if you believe in that kind of thing.
Anyway, the doors were reopened in 2007 after extensive and well thought out renovations. Surprisingly the Hilton took great strides in preserving the building's character by restoring the hotel's original exterior finish and by installing historically accurate windows.
The Skirvin is not the only building in OKC that is seeing the benefits of this quickly growing city's rehab. Buildings all over town have been able to reclaim their former glory.
Of course, there are still a few buildings that still need some TLC...
3 comments:
I'm celebrating my 29th next month. We usually go to KC for weekends away, but we've been thinking about a trip over to OKC-- it's about the same distance. And I LOVE old hotels. You've just given me an idea!
Lovely buildings. Hope you had a wonderful bday.
Amalie - You should definitely come to OKC to celebrate your 29th (I'm jealous you're actually turning 29!). The Skirvin is truly beautiful and Bricktown is a great place to celebrate any occassion. Let me know if you need some ideas as to where to go.
Jenni - thank you. I did have a very nice birthday. My husband is a good man and treated me to a day at the spa and then a night in the city. I am a very lucky girl.
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