 Originally known as the Brown and Hoag Block, this building opened in February of 1890. A three-story atrium, crowned by a giant skylight, adorned the interior. Aspen’s post office remained here until 1924. By the time Walter Paepcke leased the building in the 1940s, it was in a terrible state of disrepair. Elizabeth Paepcke redesigned the interior, renamed the building the Prince Albert Hotel, and rented rooms to skiers and music students. Restaurants and retail businesses subsequently took over the lower floors. The building's notable features include its corner pediment and elaborate unbroken cornice.
< The Independence Building about the time Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke arrived in Aspen in the 1940s.
|
|
Downtown e-tour
< The Independence Building, 2000. © Ann Hodges photo
