Of these, only the Saint Catherine was not reopened for the tourist trade after the war. Robert Foehl (1931-1932) ĭuring World War II (1941-1946) the hotel was used by the Merchant Marines who were in training at the Country Club, the Cubs ballpark and the Casino.

He also managed the Atwater and Island Villa and Villa Perk 'bungalettes.'

They could come and go more privately in their own yachts to the hotel's pier in Descanso Bay.įor 47 years, the famous hotel served as an elegant vacation spot for visitors to Santa Catalina Island, from the regular tourists to Hollywood stars, many foreign dignitaries, presidents, princes and generals. The hotel's high standard of elegance when it opened made it the island' first choice for accommodations by visiting Hollywood stars. Tables were set with Catalina Pottery, and fresh fruit and vegetables grown on the island were often served. The hotel could seat 1200 people for dinner. In 1925 a new wing was added to accommodate more diners. obtained the island from the Banning brothers in 1919, additional accommodations were erected on the west side of the hotel, the grounds were extended and a swimming pool added.

The hotel was constructed by the Milwaukee Building Company under the supervision of Hancock Banning and Captain William Banning. The Hotel Saint Catherine construction began in 1917, and opened its doors on June 28, 1918. Faced with enormous financial losses, the Bannings took a trust deed in the amount of $850,000 to pay off debts and build a major new and grand tourist hotel - the Saint Catherine. Saint Catherine Hotel, Avalon, Santa Catalina Island, (1918-1966) was built on the site of the Banning home in Descanso Canyon in the aftermath of the Novemfire, which destroyed a large portion of Avalon, including the Metropole and many other hotels, the Tuna Club, Pilgrim Club, main bathhouse, waterfront shops, and all other city structures within its path.

Catalina hotel