by Patricia M. Lee

The Sir Francis Drake hotel, in the heart of San Francisco near Union Square, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Named after the English explorer, it has quite an historical past. Built in 1928, the hotel still retains some of its original splendor with its grand staircase leading to the lobby’s marble walls, gold-leaf ceiling and crystal chandeliers. The former murals of Sir Francis Drake have been replaced with five oil paintings depicting images of a sword, shield and castle.

“… always greeted by a doorman dressed in the traditional garb of a Beefeater.”

In those early days the hotel offered new innovations such as an indoor golf course, ice water on tap and a radio in every room. Today, they have been replaced with a television, refrigerator and an exercise facility, along with many more amenities.

Over the years many celebrities and guests have stayed here, always greeted by a doorman dressed in the traditional garb of a Beefeater. In the past 25 years, Tom Sweeney has been the prime doorman and a celebrity in his own right. He has appeared in the soap opera The Young and the Restless, and, among other accolades, has received a Nick-in-Time Award from the mayor for tackling two thieves running off with a guest’s luggage.

The hotel has always been a favorite place for dances and other social events. Many couples have met their future spouses here. This was the case for my brother and sister-in-law, who will be celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. They have returned often to celebrate the occasion of their first meeting.

This year the hotel is holding a Living History Contest, asking guests to write and share their favorite moments. The entries will be drawn randomly with the winner receiving a two-night stay and many other prizes. Entries can be left at the hotel or mailed to: Sir Francis Drake Hotel, c/o General Manager, 450 Powell Street, San Francisco, CA 94102.

Sir Francis Drake: tel. 800/227-4580: www.sirfrancisdrake.com.

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