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St. Petersburg, Florida

The Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club

Norman
2004-08-11 16:30:43

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Over the past few years there has been a concerted effort throughout major cities in the USA and Canada to preserve and renovate historic buildings. One such property that has undergone considerable refurbishment is the Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida.
The history of this grand hotel is quite fascinating. In 1923, businessman Aymer Vinoy Laughner along with his two friends, financier Gene Elliott and golfer Walter Hagen, met on the front lawn of Laughner's home (that still exists today), and discussed the possibility of building the most elegant and luxurious hotel facing the St. Petersburg waterfront.

Apparently, Hagen enjoyed hitting golf balls from the face of Laughner's pocket watch towards a property, owned by a Mr. Williamson, located directly across the street from the Laughner home. Due to its superb waterfront locality, all agreed that Williamson's property would fit the bill as the ideal location to build their dream hotel.

One day the three friends approached Mr. Williamson and offered to purchase his property revealing to him their hotel idea. Williamson agreed, on the condition that the hotel incorporate the best materials and have the best views of the St. Petersburg waterfront. Legend tells us that all parties immediately came to an understanding, and that the deed was signed on the back of a brown bag. (This may be a trifle farfetched, however, it certainly enhances the story.)

The actual construction of the hotel commenced on February 5th, 1925 and just under 10 months a hotel depicting one of the finest examples of Mediterranean Revival architecture in Florida was completed. The early days saw the hotel, known at the time as the Vinoy Park, opened for business from roughly December through March. The original rates were the highest in the bay area at $20 per night, including a full American plan. However, ...