3 minute read
Point of Interest: Hotel Pattee
Pride of Perry
Experience the historic splendor of Hotel Pattee
By Haley Banwart
Situated along Willis Avenue in the historic downtown district of Perry stands the timeless Hotel Pattee.
Outwardly, the Classic Revival design of the beautiful brick façade seamlessly integrates the large building into the surrounding streetscape. Inside, an immersive celebration of history, fine art and local culinary flair awaits.
Early Origins
During the early 20th century, railroad expansion stimulated construction in downtown Perry, making it the center for social life in the community. The grand Hotel Pattee was built in 1913 by brothers Harry and Will Pattee to honor their father, David Jackson (D.J.).
Des Moines architectural firm Proudfoot, Bird & Rawson designed the three-story structure. Few expenses were spared, and construction was completed a year after D.J. passed.
Dances and dinner parties held at Hotel Pattee helped establish the new gathering space as a landmark of downtown Perry. Unfortunately, property upkeep became a challenge for the series of owners who followed.
Desire to Rejuvenate
Despite several remodeling attempts, the hotel lost much of its historic charm, and by the early 1990s, it had fallen into disrepair. Then, in 1993, the building was purchased by former Perry resident Roberta Ahmanson.
For the first time in 82 years, Hotel Pattee closed its doors for a complete interior renovation, ushering in a new era. The rooms and event spaces were masterfully restored in the Arts and Crafts style.
According to Hotel Pattee General Manager, Jenny Eklund, the hotel's transformation brought people of means to the community following its grand re-opening in 1997.
“We were blessed to have Roberta wrap her arms around Hotel Pattee and bring it back to life in the most magnificent way,” says Eklund. “Special care was taken to respect the history here and keep it alive so it remains a point of pride for those who grow up, work and live in Perry.”
A Story in Every Room
Today, Hotel Pattee is one of the few hotels where every room tells its own story. Mahogany paneling, Persian rugs and period chandeliers elegantly outfit the lobby, hallways and gathering areas.
Upstairs, 40 individually decorated and themed guest rooms pay tribute to the people who came from all over the world to build small-town America. Eklund says the Japanese, Woodworking, Louis Armstrong and Italian rooms are some of the favorites booked by guests.
The boutique hotel is also home to a state-of-the-art bowling center, a dedicated library, an extensive museum collection of art and a fullservice dining room and lounge.
Specializing in Unique
The Pattee Café offers a dining experience that’s memorable for any occasion. Diners enjoy a menu featuring a variety of American dishes sure to fancy the taste buds. Within the Pattee Café, three distinct dining areas take visitors back to when trains reigned supreme.
Thanks to a unique public-private partnership between Perry Economic Development Inc. and Perry Hospitality Inc., Hotel Pattee continues to serve as a hub for residents and visitors from across the globe.
“Community support is the reason we’re here,” says Eklund. “We open Hotel Pattee to everyone, and our hospitality is something we hang our hat on. I leave every night knowing our employees and guests are treated as family.”
