T

he Hotel Thorne, a substantial five-story brick building, first opened its doors in 1889. Its founder, Dr. Joshua Thorne, chose a prime location at the bustling intersection of Ninth and Central streets. However, Dr. Thorne's ownership was short-lived. In 1890, George W. Reynolds took the helm, transitioning the hotel to a European-style establishment with a first-class cafe. This shift in management marked the beginning of a series of changes that would shape the hotel's future.

Later that year, the hotel changed hands once again, with Dudley Rhoades taking over the lease. Rhoades maintained the European style and offered affordable accommodations at a rate of $1 per day. The hotel continued to operate under Rhoades' management for a few years. However, in 1892, Dr. Thorne decided to sell the property to Messrs. Ingalls & Ashley of Chicago for a considerable sum of $200,000. L.E. Ingalls, one of the new owners, hinted at the possibility of converting the hotel into an office building in the future, depending on the market's demands.

Unfortunately, the hotel's financial situation took a turn for the worse in 1893. A lawsuit was filed to foreclose a $70,000 deed of trust on the property, and in early 1894, the hotel was sold under foreclosure to W.A. Jamison. The transfer of ownership was not without its challenges. A legal dispute arose over obtaining the keys from the former owner, delaying Jamison and his partner, John Arbuckle, from taking possession of the property until February 1894.

Despite the legal hurdles and changes in ownership, the hotel's story was far from over. In December 1894, the hotel underwent a transformation and reopened as the Hotel Savoy. Under its new name, the hotel continued to operate as a European hotel with a cafe. The Savoy underwent significant renovations and expansions in 1896 to modernize its facilities and enhance its appeal. In 1897, an additional story was added to the building, further expanding its capacity and offering more rooms to accommodate guests.

The hotel's management also saw changes during this period. Frank P. Ewins, who had interests in the Ewins-Dean Hotel Company that leased the Savoy, sold his shares in December 1899. In June 1900, the Savoy's furniture and lease were sold to the Ewins-Childs Hotel Company, marking another shift in the hotel's ownership structure.

The hotel's evolution continued into the new century. In 1904, Arbuckle Bros., the owners of the Hotel Savoy, purchased the lot adjacent to the hotel. This strategic acquisition paved the way for ambitious expansion plans, with the goal of increasing the hotel's capacity to 225 rooms. In 1905, a substantial investment of $175,000 was allocated for improvements and the construction of a 100-room addition on the west side of the hotel. These expansions solidified the Savoy's position as a prominent hotel in Kansas City.

In 1910, Frank E. Miller assumed the role of manager of the Savoy Hotel, bringing his expertise to oversee the hotel's operations. Frank P. Ewins, despite his earlier divestment, remained involved as president, ensuring continuity and stability in the hotel's leadership.

The Hotel Thorne, which later became the Hotel Savoy, witnessed a dynamic and eventful history. From changes in ownership and legal battles to renovations, expansions, and shifts in management, the hotel's journey mirrored the ever-changing landscape of Kansas City. Throughout its existence, the hotel adapted to the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, leaving a lasting mark on the city's history.

From Advertisements annoucing her rooms, to eerie details of those who passed away behind her walls. Below you will find a timeline of the Hotels creation, as well as news clippings detailing deaths, robberies and other curiosities