Vigo County Historical Society

Photos recall hotel’s glory days

In 1940, a large sign was mounted at 11th St. and Lafayette Ave. calling to the attention of wayfarers of the following:

"At Cross Roads of the Nation. US40 and Business Route 41/Terre Haute House/ Distinctive. . . Marine Room Grill Tavern--Coffee Shop 250 Rooms 250 Baths $2.75 up"

Although sadly the original sign along with the wonders it proclaimed has long since disappeared, it can still be viewed in miniature at the Historical Museum of the Wabash Valley.

As part of the museum’s collection of memorabilia commemorating the 50th anniversary of World War II’s end, there is a large mat displaying pictures reflective of his once grand hotel.

First of all, there is the elegant lobby with its patterned carpet, elaborate paneled ceiling and sturdy plush sofas and chairs. The room is further embellished with oil portraits, deco lamps with lissome ladies holding aloft the lights. Everything is enclosed in lustrous dark wood.

Then there is the photograph of the Marine Room of tender memory, where many happy hours were spent at sea dropping depth bombs in those nautical surroundings. If you do not know "depth bombs," count yourself fortunate. You have been spared the whips and jangles that customarily follow an evening of unbridled merriment.

The room was also famous for its trick trays, especially designed to keep parsimonious patrons from retrieving change.

Next, we have the photo of the Mayflower Room, with its impressive murals. Behind the bandstand, a pilgrim father is leading his troops up Plymouth Rock while a group of wary Indians looks on apprehensively. At the actual time the natives were no doubt friendly and trusting but the 20th century muralist had the advantage of hindsight.

Another nostalgic photo depicts Jimmy Adami leading his group of neatly dressed, well groomed bandsmen. They are blowing their hearts out while a pretty vocalist pours melting lyrics into the mike. (Ah, the sweet tunes of yesteryear when the operative four-letter word was love.)

Finally, there are group pictures of gentlemen conducting commercial affairs (the 1940s definition), and handsomely clad youths with their gorgeously gowned ladies at a ball where they, while dancing, actually held each other in arms rather than at arms length. Take a look; you may see yourself (or your father, mother or grandparents).

The composite of Terre Haute House photographs may be seen as part of "Fashions and Entertainment, the ‘40s" exhibit.