Exploring the Literary Legacy of San Francisco's Iconic Hotels
San Francisco, a city steeped in history and culture, is not just known for its iconic landmarks and bustling streets. It is also a place where several famous writers have stayed and found inspiration. This article delves into some of the most notable hotels that have hosted these literary giants, offering a unique glimpse into their lives and works.
The Dashiell Hammett Suite at Hotel Union Square
The Dashiell Hammett Suite at Hotel Union Square bears the name of the renowned private detective author who wrote classic novels such as The Maltese Falcon (1930). This hotel, with its elegant rooms and classic charm, has a special place in the hearts of many writers. Dashiell Hammett, who fell in love with the city and the hotel, even booked a suite on the night before his wedding to Josephine Dolan in 1921.
The Westin St. Francis Hotel
Situated in the heart of the city, the The Westin St. Francis Hotel has been a constant in San Francisco's literary scene. John Steinbeck, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for works like Cup of Gold, stayed here multiple times with his wife Elaine. The hotel is often a source of inspiration for many writers, offering a tranquil setting away from the urban chaos.
Hotel Rex
Hotel Rex stands as a testament to the city's rich literary history, named after the famous poet Kenneth Rexroth. With its clubby interiors and antique treasures like typewriters, globes, and books, this hotel hosts regular readings and book signings. The roundtable salon of Hotel Rex, a popular gathering spot for poets and writers, provides a unique environment for literary activities.
The Sheraton Palace Hotel
Another historic hotel with literary connections is the Sheraton Palace Hotel. In 1944, Lucius Beebe, a renowned car and travel writer, stayed here. He announced his intention to remain for three weeks to gather material for a new book tentatively titled They Came to the Palace. This book was intended to be a comprehensive review of the hotel's history, starting from its reopening in 1909 after the earthquake and fire. Despite his early promise, the book was never completed, leaving behind a tantalizing tale of missed opportunities and fleeting promises.
The Tubbs Hotel in Oakland
The Tubbs Hotel in Oakland is not only significant for its architectural significance but also for its connection to the literary world. It was during an extended stay at this hotel that Gertrude Stein, the influential modernist writer, is said to have quipped, "I have no other friends in San Francisco, I have no friends in Oakland, and I have no friends in Alameda." This quote encapsulates the relative isolation that Stein often felt in the Bay Area, where she moved in 1914.
Conclusion: The hotels of San Francisco are not just places to rest the head but the touchstones of the city's literary heritage. Each room and corner in these iconic establishments is steeped in stories, reminding us of the writers who have passed through and how they have shaped the literature of the city. Whether it's the enduring Dashiell Hammett Suite, the cultural haven of Hotel Rex, or the storied history of the Sheraton Palace, these hotels offer a journey through time and the lives of some of the greatest literary figures of the 20th century.