In the heart of the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire stands the illustrious Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa, a beacon of luxury and hospitality with a rich history dating back to the post-Civil War era. It all began on a fateful rainy night in 1865, when a group of weary travelers bound for Montreal found themselves stranded after their stagecoach overturned near Whitefield, N.H. Their stroke of misfortune led them to the doorstep of William and Maryjane Dodge, who graciously offered shelter, warmth, and a hearty home-cooked breakfast to the drenched travelers.
As dawn broke, revealing the breathtaking panorama of the Presidential Range with its majestic 5,000 and 6,000-foot peaks, the Dodges recognized the potential of their scenic surroundings. Thus, in 1866, they opened the doors to the Mountain View House, an inn that would soon become synonymous with opulence and charm. Over the years, through meticulous expansions and enhancements, the Mountain View House blossomed into a sprawling resort capable of accommodating over 200 guests by 1912, with the iconic Belvedere Tower gracing its skyline.
Much like its counterparts among the grand hotels of the 19th century, the Mountain View House attracted a distinguished clientele, including presidents, tycoons, and luminaries of the era, drawn not only by its lavish accommodations but also by the plethora of outdoor activities available across its expansive 12,000-acre estate. For many, particularly New Yorkers, summer retreats at the Mountain View became a cherished tradition, with memories of weekend getaways by overnight train lingering fondly in their minds.
However, the advent of the interstate highway system in the mid-20th century marked a turning point, signaling the decline of railroad passenger services and ushering in a new era for the region's economy, heavily reliant on tourism and timber. Yet, amidst changing times, the Mountain View House endured, thanks in part to the visionary stewardship of individuals like Van Herbert Dodge and his wife Alice, who oversaw its transformation from a quaint country inn into a sprawling resort complex.
By the late 19th century, the Mountain View House had evolved into a modern marvel, boasting amenities that rivaled those of city hotels, including electric bells, telegraph, and long-distance telephone services, as well as recreational facilities such as billiard halls, bowling alleys, and tennis courts. The culinary experience, too, was second to none, with fresh produce sourced from the Mountain View Farm and expertly prepared by the resort's skilled chefs.
Under the leadership of Frank Schuyler Dodge, the resort underwent significant expansions during the 1920s, cementing its status as a premier destination for discerning travelers. Following Frank Dodge's passing, his wife Mary Bowden Dodge took the reins, ensuring the resort's continued success until her sons, John B. and Frank Schuyler, Jr., assumed joint management responsibilities.
Despite the challenges of the 20th century, including the oil embargo and gas shortages of the 1970s, the Mountain View House persevered until 1979 when the Dodge family reluctantly sold the property. Subsequently, the resort experienced a period of dormancy until 1989 when it was revitalized by Kevin Craffey, a visionary entrepreneur who breathed new life into its historic halls.
Since then, the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades, culminating in its acquisition by the American Holding Group in 2005. Under its stewardship, the resort has continued to garner accolades, including AAA Four Diamond honors for both lodging and dining, as well as recognition as an Environmental Champion for its commitment to sustainability.
Today, as a proud member of Historic Hotels of America, the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention, offering guests a blend of old-world charm and modern comforts amidst the timeless beauty of the White Mountains.
