| Other |
|
The Maples was referred to as the Maples Hotel by my grandparents. My Grandparents, John & Cleo Barbee managed it in the early to mid fifties. My family stayed in one of the apartments on the first floor when we moved to Excelsior Springs, our next door neighbors at the hotel were the Herman Taylors. He was a custodian/caretaker for the Hall of Waters. We took swimming lessons at the Hall of Waters and later attended dances there when they would cover the pool with a floor during winter. My Sister and I attended Isley school. It was 1st grade for her, third for me during that time frame. Our parents later bought a home on Westview Drive. We then attended Wyman School. My Grandfather liked to tell us stories about there being a big saloon in the basement, etc. How much was true, I don't know. The third floor of the hotel had sleeping rooms. Big coiled ropes were by the windows for fire emergencies. The big old doors had transoms over them. On some postcard photo's there was a watering trough (for horses) at what looked like a gazebo. It was not there in the 50's, but a spring seems to be at that location on some maps. I believe "The Maples" was one of the first major hotels in area and would like to see it remembered on your site. Source: Janice Blough <Janice@MaisonRealty.com> |
