The Baker Hotel Mineral Wells, TX

The  Baker Hotel  of Mineral Wells, Texas was alive and well when I was stationed at Fort Wolters with the US Army in the late 60's. Construction of the hotel began in 1925 and opened in 1929 only days after the 1929 stock market crash. It was once an international resort destination of presidents and kings.  It's a magnificant structure with lots of history and a star studded guest list including Glenn Miller, Lawrence Welk, Clark Gable, Judy Garland, and future U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. It is even rumored by local historians that legendary outlaws Bonnie and Clyde may have spent a night or two at the Baker.  The Baker hosted the Texas Republican Party conventions in 1952 and 1955, and the Texas Democratic Party held their convention at the Baker in 1954.  Be sure to click on the above link for more details.  As you can see by the photos I've taken, the 2010 restoration plans mentioned in the link must have fallen through.  Of course the hotel is claimed to be haunted; click on this link for more details about hauntings.   It's heartbreaking to see such a historic grand structure in a constant state of decay.  Watch this YouTube video for a nostalgic look at the hotel.  View this video as well: "Ballad of the Baker"