The Twin Cities Hotel first opened their doors September 2, 1938. Built by three prominent NHL hockey players, Red Dutton, Cecil “Tiny” Thompson and Paul Thompson, this establishment has stood the test of time. Now owned and operated by long time area resident Chris Goss, the hotel continues to be an important part of the surrounding community.
The oil boom in the mid 1930’s led to fast growth in the area, and north of present day Longview a little town cropped up, consisting of many houses, stores, a movie theatre and post office, called Little Chicago. All that remains today is a stone memorial on the side of the road. South of Little Chicago was Little New York, a substantial tent town that developed as a result of the fast growth in the area. In 1937, the post office located at East Longview (4 miles east of the Little New York) was to be closed, and Guy Weadick (founder of the Calgary Stampede) petitioned to have the name Longview transferred to Little New York, which had enough population to warrant an official name. The founders named the hotel “Twin Cities” as a nod to the two communities.
Today, the Twin Cities Hotel is one of the few iconic buildings and businesses that remain as a reminder of the rich oil and gas history in the area. Schools, businesses and entire towns have disappeared over the years, but the spirit and resiliency of the people remain, and the Twin Cities Hotel is proof of just that.
Good food, friendly folks and a cold beer await you, so come visit us at the Twin Cities Hotel!
