Richmond County Public Library

1 day ago

Located in the heart of town, this building was, reportedly, occupied by Union soldiers during the Civil War. In the late-19th century, it was turned into a hotel.

In 1896, J. F. Garland purchased the former Morgan Hotel from James Morgan and his wife. Garland changed the name to "The Hotel" or Garland Hotel and launched his business. Shortly after the launch, W. H. Merchant (a guest), had an unusual experience:

"He [W. H. Merchant] had just arose and while engaged in dressing was suddenly enveloped in a bluish flame and to all appearances his clothing was in a light blaze. Quickly running his hands over the light it was soon extinguished and on examination it was discovered that not even the lint on the clothing thus affected was scorched and no trace whatever left of the mysterious blaze. He says also there was no heat from the flame and cannot account for it."

The account didn't seem to bother Mr. Garland. By 1910, the building had doubled in size. In his rental advertisement, Garland had this to say:

"...the entire building [has] been put into thorough repair and painted. The old stables have been enlarged and repaired, and many commodious and comfortable stalls have been added. The old carriage sheds have been removed, and new carriage houses are in course of completion. The outhouses, including four-room servant house and granary are in complete repair."

Mr. W. H. Rice responded to the advertisement and operated "The Hotel" or Hotel Garland until 1922. In 1922, Mr. Frederick Settle operated the Settle Hotel. The hotel property was purchased by R. M. Coggin in 1930 and demolished. Today, the Daily (former A&P) stands on the location of the old hotel.

Have a good weekend!

Photo: Morgan Hotel, The Hotel, Garland Hotel, Hotel Garland, Settle Hotel (Courtesy of the Warner Collection) ... See MoreSee Less

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