In the heart of Jerome, Arizona, nestled amidst the rugged terrains and vast landscapes of the wild west, stands the iconic Dollfin Hotel. Established in 1891, this establishment has withstood the test of time, bearing witness to countless tales of adventure, romance, and intrigue. Its slogan, “far away from everything,” perfectly encapsulates the essence of its existence.
The story of the Dollfin Hotel begins with its founder, Elijah Dollfin, a visionary and adventurer. Born to a family of fishermen in the East Coast, Elijah always felt the call of the unknown. In his early twenties, he set out on a journey across the country, seeking fortune and adventure. His travels brought him to Jerome, Arizona, a town bustling with cowboys, miners, and pioneers, all looking to carve out their piece of the American dream.
Elijah was captivated by the raw beauty of Jerome. The vast open skies, the untamed landscapes, and the promise of a fresh start inspired him. He envisioned a haven where travelers could rest, rejuvenate, and find solace from their arduous journeys. With this vision in mind, he purchased a plot of land at the heart of the town and began constructing what would soon become the Dollfin Hotel.
The hotel was a marvel of its time. Built with locally sourced timber and stone, it boasted spacious rooms, a grand dining hall, and a saloon that played host to lively evenings filled with music, dance, and laughter. But what truly set the Dollfin Hotel apart was its ethos. Elijah wanted his establishment to be a sanctuary, a place where people could escape the chaos of the wild west and find a moment of peace. Hence, the slogan “far away from everything” was born.
Over the years, the Dollfin Hotel became a cornerstone of Jerome. It played host to a myriad of guests, from weary travelers and hopeful prospectors to famous outlaws and dignitaries. Legends say that the infamous outlaw, Black Jack Ketchum, once sought refuge in the hotel, and it was here that he left behind a stash of gold, which to this day remains undiscovered.
But it wasn’t just the allure of hidden treasures or the promise of luxury that kept the Dollfin Hotel thriving. It was the sense of community that Elijah fostered. He often organized events, from barn dances to storytelling nights, ensuring that the hotel was more than just a place to stay; it was a place to belong.
As decades turned into a century, the world around the Dollfin Hotel changed. The wild west was tamed, the gold rush ended, and the era of cowboys faded into history. Yet, the Dollfin Hotel remained, adapting to the times while staying true to its roots.
The hotel was passed down through generations of the Dollfin family, each inheritor ensuring that Elijah’s legacy lived on. They introduced modern amenities, renovated the interiors, and expanded the property, but the heart of the hotel remained unchanged.
Today, the Dollfin Hotel stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the wild west. It's a beacon for those seeking a journey back in time, to an era of adventure and discovery. Its walls echo with stories of the past, and its doors are always open to those looking to create new memories.
In a world that's constantly changing, the Dollfin Hotel remains a constant, a reminder of the enduring power of dreams, determination, and community. And as it approaches its 150th anniversary, one thing is certain: the Dollfin Hotel, “far away from everything,” will continue to be a cherished landmark for generations to come.
---
SHIRT INFO
• 50% polyester, 25% combed ring-spun cotton, 25% rayon • Fabric weight: 3.4 oz/yd² (115.3 g/m²) • Pre-shrunk for extra durability • 40 singles • Regular fit • Side-seamed construction
