Summary of Chronology for Hotel Green, Castle Green Apartments, Hotel Green Apartments, and Related Events: Green-Hotel-103-1 | Green-Hotel-104-1 | Green-Hotel-105-1 | Green-Hotel-119-1 | Green-Hotel-116-1 | Green-Hotel-115-1 | Green-Hotel-117-1 | Green-Hotel-112-1 | Green-Hotel-114-1 |
Introduction:- The chronology compiles information from various sources, aiming to expand the understanding of significant historic resources in Pasadena and Southern California.
- Interpretations have been made from the sources, and the chronology is preliminary, with ongoing research expected to fill gaps.
Key Historical Dates and Events:- 1841: Birth of George G. Green.
- 1857: Birth of Frederick Louis Roehrig in New York.
- 1872: Col. George G. Green returns to Woodbury, NJ, and buys his father's patent medicine business.
- 1874: Land distribution by the San Gabriel Orange Grove Association.
- 1876: Pasadena's name is adopted.
- 1880: Lake Vineyard House, the first hotel in Pasadena, opens.
- 1885: Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley Railroad opens lines between Los Angeles and Pasadena.
- 1886: Construction of various buildings in Pasadena, including the Webster House.
- 1887: Col. Green arrives in Pasadena.
- 1890: First Tournament of Roses Parade.
- 1891: Formation of the Hotel Green Company.
- 1893: Construction begins on the Hotel Green's expansion.
- 1898: Construction of the Hotel Green's Western Annex and linking bridge.
- 1899: Formal opening of the Western Annex (Castle Green Apartments).
- 1900: Hotel Green offers recreational facilities for guests.
- 1910: Pasadena's population reaches 30,291.
- 1914: Hotel Green is sold to Daniel M. Linnard.
- 1920: Pasadena's population is 45,354.
- 1924: Castle Green Apartments are established.
- 1930: Pasadena's population reaches 75,086.
- 1935: Original portion of Green Hotel complex demolished.
- 1982: Castle Green and Green Hotel Apartments placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Notable Developments:- Development of various hotels and the arrival of important individuals and infrastructures in Pasadena contributed significantly to its growth and reputation as a resort destination.
- The transformation and adaptations of the Hotel Green and its annexes reflect changing economic conditions and urban development trends over time.
- Efforts to preserve the historical integrity of these buildings, including restoration projects and historical registrations, highlight their cultural significance.
Restoration and Preservation:- Significant restoration efforts, including state-funded projects and grants, have been undertaken to maintain the historical and architectural integrity of the Castle Green Apartments and Hotel Green Apartments.
- Awards and recognitions were granted for successful preservation and restoration projects.
Sources:- Various books, newspapers, and records document the history, development, and preservation efforts related to the Hotel Green and associated buildings. The bibliography provides detailed citations for further research.
Conclusion:The chronology provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of the Hotel Green, Castle Green Apartments, and related events in Pasadena, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to preserve these important cultural and architectural landmarks. Colonel Green, The Man and His Empire A century ago, if plagued by ailments like ague, dyspepsia, or gout, one might turn to Colonel Green's patent medicines. His elixirs, including Boschee's German Syrup and August Flower, were advertised to cure various common ailments, with testimonials from satisfied customers. The story begins with Dr. Lewis M. Green, who, after the Civil War, established a small patent medicine business in Woodbury, New Jersey. His son, George Gill Green, born in 1842, followed in his footsteps. Educated in pharmacy, George served as an assistant surgeon during the Civil War and later entered the business world, leveraging his title "Colonel" for life. George expanded the family business, manufacturing patent medicines, and real estate, and diversifying into various industries. His efforts transformed Woodbury from a quiet town into a bustling city between 1880 and 1910, creating numerous jobs and doubling the population. He purchased his father’s interest in the patent medicine company in 1872, added products, and made a fortune. His business acumen and smart advertising played key roles in his success. Colonel Green's significant contributions to Woodbury included building a grand four-story laboratory and employing many locals. The laboratory, equipped with modern amenities, was a model of good working conditions compared to the sweatshops of that era. His innovations included printing millions of free almanacs to promote his products. Green also accumulated substantial real estate, including a large mansion, a ranch in Wyoming, and mining interests in Mexico. His civic contributions were notable, including financial support for various local industries and utilities. Colonel Green eventually expanded his influence to California, building a winter residence in Altadena. His opulent lifestyle included multiple yachts, an elegant mansion, and a private railroad car. The family was deeply integrated into both New Jersey and California societies. One of his most notable achievements was the Hotel Green in Pasadena, California. Initially taking over the incomplete Webster Hotel, Green transformed it into a grand establishment. The hotel, with its Moorish, Spanish, and Mission Revival architecture, became a social and business hub. Opened formally in 1890, the hotel featured luxurious amenities, including richly decorated rooms, a private theater, and lush gardens. The Hotel Green expanded over the years, with the addition of new wings and a unique covered bridge connecting the buildings. The hotel boasted over 500 rooms, multiple dining areas, and various recreational facilities, including a roof garden and tennis courts. It became known for hosting significant social events and prominent guests, including President Benjamin Harrison and Teddy Roosevelt. The hotel was an architectural marvel of its time, featuring elegant interiors, advanced plumbing and electrical systems, and even a private power plant. Its strategic location and luxurious accommodations made it a favorite among tourists and the elite. The decline of the patent medicine industry around 1916 marked the end of Green's prosperity, but his legacy of transforming Woodbury and contributing to its industrial growth remained. Green passed away in 1925, leaving behind a storied legacy of innovation and civic contribution, with the Hotel Green standing as a testament to his vision and entrepreneurial spirit. |