In the late 1920s, the owners of Harrisonburg’s hotels were big fish in a little pond. Or, at least, medium-sized fish in a relatively small pond. They often owned other businesses, and because of their financial affluence, had a sphere of influence that made them some of the city’s most important residents. They were likely the closest thing to celebrities the little town knew. Certainly, virtually everyone in Harrisonburg would have known their names, if not their faces.

 

 

Kavanaugh was perhaps the most prominent hotel name in Harrisonburg. There were a considerable number of people employed at the Kavanaugh Hotel: 40 listed in the 1927 City Directory and 29 listed in the 1929 City Directory. Jason M. Kavanaugh, who ran the Kavanaugh Hotel, located at 131 North Main Street, also was treasurer of the Harrisonburg Ice Corporation. Inside the hotel was the Kavanaugh Soda Fountain, the area for refreshment, entertainment, and socializing. The hotel also housed the Kavanaugh Barber Shop, an important fixture in the town that employed many residents, and naturally, cut the hair of many. Next door was the Kavanaugh Garage, effectively making this bustling strip of Main Street Kavanaugh central.

 

The Warren Hotel, located at 24-28 Court Square, was managed by Walter J.Taliaferro, member of an influential family within Harrisonburg. George W. Taliaferro was the proprietor of the Taliaferro Realty Company, with his partner Karl C. Moore. Mr. Moore was also an attorney and justice of the peace. John W. Taliaferro ran a business as a jeweler and optometrist, advertised as “Harrisonburg’s Oldest, Largest and Best Jewelry Store”. Ralph W. Taliaferro worked for him as a watchmaker. Julian H. Taliaferro ran the Cash Tire Shop along with William H. Humble, Jr. Charles H. Taliaferro managed Spotswoods Country Club. Quite a notable family in a small city like Harrisonburg, maybe even more so than the Kavanaughs.

 

Robert L. Getz, who ran the Helbert Hotel at 77 Court Square, along with Stanley R. Helbert was also, of all things, a veterinary surgeon. Amanda Campbell operated the Campbell Hotel, an important fixture on Main Street at 217 North Main. In addition, her husband Jonathan R., was the owner of Campbell’s Bakery (right next door to the hotel) and Campbell’s Art Studio. Amanda Campbell was not the only successful female businesswoman running a hotel though. Sallie E. Feuchtenberger was the proprietor of the Elizabeth Hotel and Restaurant, in competition with the Kavanaugh and Campbell on Main Street, at 287 North Main.