About this episode

This episode explores the history and significance of the 1858 Garnett House Hotel in Garnett, Kansas.

Constructed in 1858 by D.W. Houston, the Garnett House commenced operations as a hotel in the fall of the same year, overseen by Mr. Hiram Tefft. Nestled at the picturesque junction of Fourth Avenue and Walnut in Garnett, Kansas, a town renowned for its charm and amicable locals, this venerable edifice holds a cherished position within the community. As the town's inaugural hotel, it underwent numerous expansions in subsequent years, cementing its status as an iconic landmark. An article from the 1800s spoke of how Mrs. Houston refused to stay in the original structure due to its swaying in the breeze, marking a departure from the prevalent log cabin designs of the era and establishing the 1858 Garnett House as a trailblazing architectural marvel in the region. Evolving through various ownerships and name changes, including The Garnett House, The Commercial House, and The Lighthouse Hotel, the latter earning its name from a lantern atop the top floor; visible from miles around. Noteworthy for its survival as an antebellum relic, the Garnett House has now borne witness to nearly 170 years of history, notably serving as a focal point of the underground railroad in the area. Amidst…

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