The Beacon Hotel (or Tavern) was built behind a retired aviation beacon which advertised a Richfield gas station. The building, with 50 rooms, was built soon after the stock market crash in 1929. At that time it was the largest hotel between Los Angeles and Albuquerque. The grand opening was a week long party that started on June 27, 1930.
The swanky rooms had a writing desk, a radio with country-wide stations and their own bathrooms! Cost: three to six dollars.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, Norma Talmadge, Mickey Rooney, Clark Gable the Pittsburgh Pirates and many other big stars stayed at the hotel.
The cactus garden was a big attraction and was the site of many weddings and parties.
In 1970 it was dismantled. The furnishings, appliances and even the books were sold. Many items can still be found in local homes and museums.
This mural is one of many that can be found on Barstow’s Main Street.
