History of Hotels in America

The hotel industry in America began with rustic New England country inns and taverns, progressed to grand hotels with the growth of major American cities as spurred on by the railroads, and has culminated in the sophisticated boutique hotels of today. As America grew in population and prominence, the need for accommodations for travelers spurred the expansion of the hospitality industry while advancing the popular architectural styles of the time. This lecture will address the development of the industry, through discussion of architectural and interior styles and the unique regional and cultural influences from various regions throughout the United States.

Eleanor Schrader is an award-winning educator, lecturer and author. She lectures worldwide on art and architectural history and leads art and architecture tours throughout the world. She has been named a distinguished instructor at UCLA Extension, where she teaches the history of architecture, interior design, furniture and decorative arts. She is also professor emeritus of art and architectural history at Santa Monica College. She has done fine and decorative arts graduate work at Sotheby's Institute in London and New York. She has served as a design review commissioner for the city of Beverly Hills and currently serves on the board of directors of the John Lautner Foundation.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people ages 50 and older, seeking intellectual stimulation through university-level courses — without the pressure of grades — for the sake of learning and social engagement.

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Register by Jan. 8, 3 p.m. PST