Our early history relates that Paso Robles was known to the Indians and Mission Fathers as the "Hot Springs." During the Mission Period, the Padres were impressed by the healing powers of the hot springs, and annual pilgrimages were made from the missions of Santa Ynez, San Luis Obispo and San Antonio to bring their sick to be healed by bathing in and drinking the thermal waters.
The first Paso Robles Hot Springs Hotel was built in 1864 and was right next to the natural artesian Hot Springs well. In 1891, the old hotel was replaced with a new, magnificent, all brick hotel. It utilized over one million bricks and took over 2 years to build. It became known worldwide as a health resort. In 1906 a new bathhouse and indoor plunge was completed. It was designed by the famous architect, W. H. Weeks, and was situated close to a new hot springs well which produced over a million gallons per day at 106 degrees Farenheit. Many dignitaries came to regain their health, including concert pianist Ignace Paderewski who enjoyed the hotel and purchased a ranch west of the town. The Pittsburgh Pirates made the hotel their spring training home.
Local businessman, Tom Martin, and his family purchased the Inn in January 1999. The Martin family has vowed to restore the property back to its original glory. The famous 1940's circular coffee shop has been restored, a new pool and spa added, and the Hot Springs well has been redrilled. Existing rooms have been remodeled and fireplaces have been added to many of them. Deluxe Spa rooms featuring private hot springs mineral spa tubs have also been added. The Historic Ballroom has been completely restored to its former glory and features 12 Deluxe Spa rooms upstairs.
In 2003 the San Simeon Earthquake shook the town of Paso Robles and caused much destruction to the small town of Paso Robles. Unfortunately the Inn's Annex building did not fair well in the quake and was eventually demolished. Completed in the Summer of 2005, the new Jesse James Building opened to replace the downed Annex Building. Featuring 18 brand new rooms, the addition of the building adds 6 deluxe suites and 12 beautiful new standard rooms. The two room suites feature private balconies with hot springs spa tubs. |
