The illustrious history of The Greenbrier intertwines with the narrative of America’s social and political evolution, marking significant milestones and transformations since its inception.
In the dawn of the 20th century, the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, recognizing the allure of the bucolic landscape, acquired the revered resort property in 1910. This acquisition heralded a new era of grandeur and expansion for The Greenbrier. Spearheading this ambitious endeavor, the railway embarked on a substantial expansion project, culminating in the unveiling of The Greenbrier Hotel in 1913. This inaugural phase of development also witnessed the establishment of the iconic mineral bath department and the inception of the renowned 18-hole golf course, now christened The Old White Course, under the visionary design of Charles Blair Macdonald.
With the completion of these monumental additions, The Greenbrier emerged as a year-round destination of unparalleled opulence and sophistication. Notably, in 1914, the resort welcomed President Woodrow Wilson and First Lady Edith Wilson for their Easter retreat, marking the commencement of a long-standing tradition of hosting distinguished guests and dignitaries.
The roaring twenties ushered in an era of prosperity and prominence for The Greenbrier, firmly establishing its position within the esteemed circles of high society. Amidst this flourishing epoch, the antiquated Old White Hotel made way for a transformative reconstruction in 1930, orchestrated by the visionary architect Philip Small. This ambitious renovation endeavor not only doubled the guestroom capacity but also introduced architectural flourishes inspired by the resort’s Southern heritage and the legacy of the erstwhile Old White Hotel.
However, the onset of World War II precipitated a dramatic shift in The Greenbrier’s trajectory, as the United States government requisitioned the property for strategic purposes. Initially serving as a refuge for displaced diplomats, the resort underwent a metamorphosis into Ashford General Hospital, a sprawling medical facility catering to the wartime exigencies. Throughout the war years, The Greenbrier stood as a beacon of hope and healing, providing solace and rehabilitation to thousands of servicemen.
Post-war rejuvenation saw the resurgence of The Greenbrier under the stewardship of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. The visionary designer Dorothy Draper infused new life into the interiors, heralding an era of vibrant aesthetics and unparalleled elegance. This renaissance coincided with the triumphant return of golf prodigy Sam Snead, whose indelible legacy as the resort’s golf pro elevated The Greenbrier to global acclaim.
Amidst the backdrop of Cold War tensions, The Greenbrier once again found itself embroiled in secrecy and intrigue, as clandestine preparations were made for the construction of an Emergency Relocation Center beneath its hallowed grounds. Shielded from public scrutiny, this subterranean sanctuary stood as a testament to the nation’s preparedness in the face of nuclear uncertainty, embodying the duality of luxury and pragmatism.
As the specter of nuclear conflict waned, The Greenbrier embraced a new era of prosperity and innovation under the visionary leadership of entrepreneur Jim Justice. His ambitious vision to transform the resort into a multifaceted entertainment destination culminated in the unveiling of The Casino Club, a testament to The Greenbrier’s enduring allure and adaptability.
Today, The Greenbrier stands as a living testament to America’s rich tapestry of history and heritage, its storied halls bearing witness to the triumphs and tribulations of generations past. From its humble beginnings as a railway retreat to its evolution into a global icon of luxury and hospitality, The Greenbrier continues to captivate and inspire, beckoning travelers from far and wide to embark on a timeless journey of indulgence and enchantment.
For those eager to delve deeper into its captivating narrative, The History of The Greenbrier: America’s Resort, penned by esteemed historian Dr. Robert S. Conte, serves as a definitive chronicle, offering a glimpse into the soul of this legendary establishment through a captivating blend of archival imagery and scholarly insight.
