Swindall Tourist Inn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Swindall Tourist Inn
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 Location in Arizona
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1021 E. Washington St., Phoenix, Arizona |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Architect | Steyaert Brothers |
| Architectural style | Bungalow/American craftsman |
| NRHP reference No. | 95001081 |
| Added to NRHP | September 7, 1995 |
The Swindall Tourist Inn is a very important historical building in Phoenix, Arizona. It's special because it's the last known surviving boarding house that served African Americans during a time in history called the Jim Crow era. This building helped many people find a safe place to stay when other options were not available to them.
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What is the Swindall Tourist Inn?
The Swindall Tourist Inn was built in 1913. It served as a boarding house for many years. A boarding house is like a small hotel or guesthouse. People could rent a room there, often with meals included. It was a common way for travelers or workers to find a place to live, especially before many hotels existed.
A Safe Place for Travelers
From 1913 until 1940, the Swindall Tourist Inn was mainly used by African American guests. During this time, many places in the United States had unfair laws. These laws made it hard for African Americans to find places to stay. The Swindall Tourist Inn offered a welcoming and safe place for them.
A Look Back: The Jim Crow Era
The "Jim Crow era" refers to a period in American history. During this time, laws were put in place to separate people based on their race. These laws were unfair and created many challenges for African Americans. They faced segregation in schools, transportation, and public places.
How Jim Crow Laws Affected Travel
Because of Jim Crow laws, many hotels and restaurants would not serve African Americans. This made traveling very difficult and sometimes dangerous. Places like the Swindall Tourist Inn were vital. They provided essential services and a sense of community. They were safe havens for people on the road.
The Building's History
The building was designed by the Steyaert Brothers. It shows a popular style of architecture from that time. This style is called Bungalow or American craftsman. These buildings often have wide porches and a cozy feel.
From Inn to Offices
The Swindall Tourist Inn was sold in 1940. After that, it stopped being a boarding house. The building was later changed to be used as offices. Even though its purpose changed, its history remains very important. It reminds us of a challenging time and the strength of the community.
Why is it Important Today?
The Swindall Tourist Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as a special place in American history. It helps us remember the past and learn about the struggles and triumphs of African Americans. It stands as a symbol of resilience and the need for equal rights for everyone.
