Fairmont Copley Plaza Picked for “Historic Hotel of the Year”

The ritzy 1912 landmark has been recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

By Spencer Buell· 3/21/2019, 12:10 p.m.

Photos courtesy of Fairmont Copley Plaza

Charmed by the antique opulence at Boston’s Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel? So is the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which has just named the 107-year-old landmark its “Historic Hotel of the Year.”

The award, per an announcement, is meant to recognize a destination that has preserved its character and continued to thrive.

“For more than a century, Fairmont Copley Plaza has been a symbol of Boston’s wonderful hospitality, culture, heritage, and traditions,” said Lawrence Horwitz, executive director of Historic Hotels of America directory, which gives out the award each year. “We are pleased to recognize, the owners, leadership, and employees of Fairmont Copley Plaza for their stewardship of this iconic historic hotel and for increasing the recognition and celebration of its history and traditions.”

Designed by architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, Fairmont Copley Plaza opened its doors in 1912. It cost a whopping $5.5 million at the time, and was so buzzworthy an attraction that room reservations were reportedly made 16 months in advance. It also bears the distinction of being the first hotel in the nation to have air conditioning, and the first to accept credit cards.

So please join us in appreciating this lush, luxurious time machine of a hotel that calls this city home.