The red-brick, ivy-covered Hailey Hotel gained recognition for its historical status this month. Built in 1924 at 201 S. Main St., the building was originally named the Rialto Hotel.
Through an initiative begun last year by the Hailey Historic Preservation Commission, the south valley landmark was placed on the National Register of Historic Places this month.
The National Register is compiled by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The designation will facilitate procurement of federal preservation grants for planning and rehabilitation of the building, including the opportunity to receive federal investment tax credits and preservation easements associated with nonprofit organizations.
Hailey Historic Preservation Commissioner Stephy Smith said the Hailey Times reported in 1924 that the Rialto Hotel was touted as the "first business of importance to be erected in Hailey in years" and that it would replace the "old, run-down dump known as the Royal Café."
The Rialto Hotel was the first business on Main Street owned by Basque-Americans. It was built by contractor Jack Rutter in collaboration with Shoshone/Gooding sheep rancher Julio Astorquia and his wife, Maria.
Smith said the Astorquias had saved up "a sizeable sum" of money in ranching before investing in two Main Street lots in Hailey where the Rialto would be built. It served as the first Basque boarding house in the city, and featured Art Deco details.
Smith said the opening of the Triumph Mine in 1930 marked a resurgence in the local economy, allowing the Rialto Hotel to thrive.
"The Astorquias were able to pay their mortgage in full by 1938," Smith said.
Known affectionately as the "Hay Ho," the Hailey Hotel is a popular Main Street bar and nightclub today.
Tony Evans: tevans@mtexpress.com
The Hailey Hotel, originally known as the Rialto Hotel, was built in 1924.
Photo by David N. Seelig
