In 1960, Mr. Robert Huck ran and operated the Blennerhassett Hotel. One of our most famous guests to have stayed at the hotel, at this time period was a young senator from Massachusetts, Senator John F. Kennedy. While running for the presidency in 1960, it was crucial to win West Virginia’s electoral vote. Kennedy toured through West Virginia in the spring of 1960, coming through Parkersburg on two different occasions in May of 1960.
Both times that he was in Parkersburg, Kennedy stayed at the Blennerhassett Hotel. On one of his trips to Parkersburg, his brothers Ted and Bobby stayed at The Blennerhassett, as well. A banquet luncheon was also held here at the Blennerhassett Hotel in his honor. Senator Kennedy stayed in suite 216 at the Blennerhassett Hotel, which at the time in 1960 was our largest guest suite, and was located on the second floor, on the fourth street side of the building.
Discover More History! Click one of the links below to explore more about the history at The Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa!
History – The Legacy Continues 2019 – Present
In October of 2019, the hotel was sold and became under new local ownership. Currently known as the company R&W Hotels, and owned and operated by Wayne Waldeck and Lee Eric Rector, both local businessmen here in Parkersburg. In the early part of 2020 there were some new changes made to the hotel. Faux tinRead More
History – Most Recent Renovation 2002 – 2006
The Hotel's third major renovation began in November of 2002, and continued up until the spring of 2006. At this time the hotel property was owned by the Ross Family, who purchased the hotel's property in 2000. This renovation surpassed ten million dollars. Construction was started at the fifth level, and once completed, moved toRead More
History – Return to Glory 1985 – 2002
The Hotels second major renovation began in 1985, and continued until the early spring of 1986, surpassing seven million dollars. The new addition to the hotel was added at this time, including a grand Ballroom and Promenade on the first floor and guest rooms on the second through fifth floors, bringing the number of roomsRead More
History – First Renovation & Fire 1944-1979
History - First Renovation & Fire 1944-1979 The Hotel has had three major renovations since its opening in 1889. The first major renovation occurred in 1944-45, when William Chancellor’s grandson, Nelson C. Burwell ran and operated the hotel. At this time a new terrazzo floor was added to the lobby area and marble facade wasRead More
History – “Hotel Blennerhassett” from 1889
The Historic Blennerhassett Hotel was built and constructed by Colonel William Nelson Chancellor. Construction on the original part of the hotel began in 1883, and after six years of construction, the doors were officially opened to the world on Monday, May 6, 1889. Chancellor wanted a hotel grand for its time, and second to noRead More
Click below for hotel photos and newspaper clippings over the decades! If you have any additional images or clippings not listed here, we’d love to have a copy! Please email adotson@theblennerhassett.com.
