309 SW Broadway
The Benson Hotel first opened in 1913, more than 110 years ago. The hotel was built by Simon Benson, a successful businessman and generous philanthropist who wanted Portland to have a grand and elegant hotel. It was designed by A.E.Doyle, a famous Portland architect who designed many of Portland’s most iconic early 20th century buildings.
Today the Benson Hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it is protected because it represents a meaningful part of the city’s past. Over the years, many famous people including actors, politicians, and presidents have stayed there.
One “fun” fact is that in the early days, guests were provided with clam juice to start their day, NOT coffee!
Elaborate Interiors
Inside the hotel, Simon Benson spared no expense in his pursuit of elegance. The ornate lobby features Italian marble floors, a classical coffered ceiling, and Austrian crystal chandeliers that sparkle when the light hits them. The walls and pillars are finished in rare Circassian walnut wood imported from the forests of Imperial Russia, a type of wood that is now extinct. This beautiful walnut remains a focal point of The Benson’s grand lobby and makes it look very rich and historic. If you look closely at the wood panels you can see images of forest creatures. Ask the students what they see.
The ornate ceiling detail can be observed closely by visiting the mezzanine level.
Simon Benson Name
Simon Benson was not only a hotel owner but also a person who gave back to the city. He helped fund public fountains called Benson Bubblers, parks, roads, and schools. His name can be found in many places around Portland because he cared about making the city better.
Historic Stairway
One of the most interesting parts of The Benson is the historic stairway. This is a twelve-story stairwell made of original marble, and it feels almost like a museum. Along the walls are over 160 photographs and stories about Portland’s history, famous buildings, and important people. Walking up the stairway is like taking a step back in time to learn about the city’s past.
Tunnel
A fun way to exit the hotel by taking the tunnel that goes under Harvey Milk Street and emerges across the street from the Benson Hotel.When entering the tunnel, ask the students to stop halfway, to be silent and to carefully listen for sounds.Then ask them what they have heard, or think they heard. Once out on the street, ask if they heard cars and why not.
Benson Today
Today the Benson Hotel still welcomes visitors from around the world. It is known for its old-fashioned charm, beautiful design, its historic stairway, and its beloved holiday gingerbread tradition.
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Discussion Questions::
Ask the students why a prominent hotel would need a “secret” exit for their famous guests, ask about security and crowd control.
Ask why there is a raised “hill” in the tunnel and talk about the infrastructure beneath city streets.
Point out the clocks by the check-in desk. What time is it now—does anyone have a watch? Why do the clocks on the wall have different times?
Simon Benson Name: Do you know anyone who has attended Benson High School?” Good way to start by sharing his investment in the Portland area.
Has anyone been to Multnomah Falls? Did you know Simon Benson gave it to the City of Portland? Was Simon Benson a “good citizen”?
Why would a hotel want to have this tunnel?
Vocabulary: philanthropist, mezzanine, extinct, palace
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State Education Standards:
Social Studies 3.11. Describe how individuals, groups, events, and developments have shaped the communities and regions. Historical Knowledge
Social Studies 3.12. Compare and contrast the history of the local community to other communities in the region. Historical Knowledge
Social Studies 3.17. Use a variety of historical sources (artifacts, pictures, documents) to identify factual evidence. Historical Thinking