Ep 3. The Windsor Hotel- Americus, GA

In episode 3 of Historical Hotels of America's first season, viewers are taken on a journey to the Windsor Hotel in Americus, Georgia. This iconic hotel was built in 1892 and has been a staple of Southern hospitality ever since. Once a hub of activity for wealthy travelers, the Windsor Hotel fell into disrepair in the mid-20th century and was eventually abandoned. However, a group of locals banded together to save the hotel from certain demolition and began the long process of restoring it to its former glory.

The episode begins with a history lesson on the hotel's construction and its original purpose as a luxurious stopover for rail passengers traveling from New York City to Florida. Viewers are shown photos and memorabilia from the hotel's early years, including its grand ballroom which once hosted lavish parties and important political events. The dramatic decline of the Windsor Hotel in the mid-20th century is also explored, as the rise of automobile travel meant that fewer people were taking trains and the hotel's once-stellar reputation slowly faded.

The rest of the episode focuses on the efforts of the Americus community to restore the Windsor Hotel. Viewers are introduced to volunteers who worked tirelessly to clean up the hotel, repair damage, and ultimately reopen it for business. Interviews with local business owners and historians reveal how the Windsor Hotel became an important part of the community's economy and cultural identity, with events such as weddings and holiday celebrations taking place in its opulent halls.

Architects and designers who worked on the hotel's restoration are also featured, discussing the challenges they faced in balancing the need to preserve historical features with the modern amenities required to make the hotel a comfortable and attractive destination for contemporary travelers. Special attention is given to the restoration of the hotel's stunning stained-glass dome, which had been damaged and neglected over the years. Viewers are treated to stunning footage of the restored dome shining in all its colorful glory.

Overall, this episode of Historical Hotels of America provides a fascinating look into the history and resurrection of an iconic Southern hotel. The passion and dedication of the Americus community is evident throughout, and viewers are left with a newfound appreciation for not only the Windsor Hotel but also the importance of preserving historical landmarks.