Come Explore Site Of Once Famous Haywards Hotel

The Hayward Area Historical Society is leading a guided tour of the site of the former Haywards Hotel on July 28 at 10 a.m.

Frank Goulart will discuss the history of the hotel and share vintage photos of the hotel over its lifetime.

You can read something about the hotel (which once was a resort destination with one hundred rooms) and its connection to the East Bay here.

According to an on-line biography of the hotel's owner, William Dutton Hayward, "Haywards Hotel became a destination for travelers and tourists. It grew to be two stories. Inside the grand building was a large lobby, reception rooms, dining halls, and sitting and card rooms. The hotel also served as a post office. The main force behind the success of Haywards Hotel wasn't William Hayward, but his wife Rachel, who arranged and managed parties, receptions, picnics, rides, and entertainment for guests. The hotel was destroyed by fire in 1923."

Some photos and drawings of the hotel can be found here.

Cost of the July 28 tour and talk is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and free for Hayward Area Historical Society members. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to bring with them water, apply sun screen and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Participants should meet for the tour at 10 a.m. at 22380 Foothill Boulevard, Hayward.

You can reach the Historical Society for more information at 510- 581-0223.