March 19, 2024

Hotel Maytag memories

Joining the recent Chamber of Commerce tour of the original Hotel Maytag building brought back many pleasant memories.

The Wedding Rehearsal Dinner on July 1952 for my dear late wife Mary and I was held in the unique Cameo Room just east of the main hotel lobby. It was “The Place” for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays and weddings. Many “old timers” today could share lots of stories of that beautiful, historic dining room. As I understand, this unique atmosphere will once again be created.

My father-in-law, Harry M. Rosenberger helped lay bricks for this great new Maytag Hotel
during 1926. It was to be the new "Showcase" for central Iowa, and one the very first totally air conditioned hotels west of the Mississippi. The exterior of this 90 year Hotel still holds a commanding spot in our community.

F.L. Maytag cut the ribbon at the grand opening on Dec. 26, 1926, as I understand. Dignitaries from all over the country were on hand for the event. A special edition of the Newton Daily News was the largest in history, weighing several pounds. A copy of this
newspaper is still on hand at our local museum, and on micro-film at our library.

For years, the Newton Rotary and Kiwanis clubs met for weekly lunch at the Maytag Hotel
Grand Ballroom, which I understand will also be brought back to its former glory. Over the
years, I had the privilege of attending a multitude of events, including the monthly 9 a.m. chamber coffee-time, where the latest news was covered and upcoming events discussed.

As a youngster in the 1940s a special treat was attending the "movies" at the Capitol theatre
for 10 cents, along with a nickel bag of popcorn. Wednesday night movies featured on-screen Bingo during intermission, with every seat occupied. Oh, what fun!

I look forward to the upcoming complete overhaul of our historic Landmark and wish the very best to everyone involved.

John D. McNeer

Newton