August 11 , 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Governor Perry Welcomes Restoration of an Iconic West Texas Hotel
Big Spring, TX—August 11, 2008—The Honorable Rick Perry Governor of Texas will preside over a ceremonious ground breaking event at the historic Settles Hotel in Big Spring, Texas in honor of the commencement of a large-scale restoration of this U.S. landmark.
“Legendary Texas landmarks like the Settles Hotel provide a glimpse into the proud history that has made the Lone Star State one of the most unique and renowned travel destinations in the world,” said Gov. Rick Perry. “I am proud to be part of the restoration of a true Texas treasure.”
In addition to Governor Rick Perry, Big Spring Mayor Russ McEwen will be in attendance at the ceremony to discuss the long history of the hotel and the revitalization of downtown Big Spring. Long-time residents will be welcomed to share memories of their experiences at the hotel, which was constructed in 1929 for a reported $500,000 and held its grand opening in October 1930 as one of the premier luxury accommodations between Fort Worth and El Paso, Texas.
The Settles Hotel became the pride of West Texas in the years following the 1920’s oil boom and was frequented by dignitaries and celebrities such as Elvis Presley, Lawrence Welk, and Herbert Hoover. Vacant since the 1980’s, the Settles Hotel remains one of the most famous historic structures in West Texas. After many years of drastic decline and eventual closure, the hotel was purchased by the Settles Hotel Development Company, LLC (“SHDC”), which was formed to acquire and restore the historic Settles Hotel property. SHDC is owned and managed by Big Spring native, G. Brint Ryan.
“It is an honor to bring this landmark back to its original glory by maintaining the inventive 30’s design concepts and many of the hotel’s most recognizable features, such as the winding staircases in the foyer and the grand ballroom,” said G. Brint Ryan, SHDC Manager.
According to Mr. Ryan, “Our primary objective is the restoration of the Settles Hotel to its 1930’s architectural grandeur following strict adherence to the original construction documents, while simultaneously upgrading the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and lift systems to modern standards.” Plans are also underway to incorporate commercial spaces along with a full service restaurant and fitness center to the hotel’s design in order to facilitate economic development in downtown Big Spring and attract more residents and tourists to the lively historic community.
When: Thursday, August 21, 2008 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where:
Settles Hotel 200 East Third Street Big Spring, TX 79720
Reporters wishing to schedule pre-event interviews with Governor Perry must contact Krista Piferrer in the Press Office at 512.463.1826. For all other inquires, contact Lauren Churchin at 512.671.9400. Photo opportunities will be available time permitting. Additional information can be found on the hotel web site www.settleshotel.com.
About Settles Hotel Development Company, LLC
The SHDC was formed to acquire and restore the historic Settles Hotel property. SHDC is owned by G. Brint Ryan, a native and former resident of Big Spring, Texas, and is managed by Kristopher K. Ryan, General Manager, and a Big Spring, Texas, resident. For more information on SHDC, please visit www.settleshotel.com.
PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Lauren Churchin, PGC, Public Relations
Phone: 512.968.5586 /Cell: 512.968.5586
