The construction of the Crescent Hotel commenced in 1884, marking the beginning of a magnificent architectural endeavor. The hotel was envisioned as a luxurious retreat that would showcase the region’s natural beauty. Following its grand opening in 1886, the Crescent Hotel swiftly established itself as a premier destination for the elite and well-to-do.

In 1902, the hotel was leased to the Frisco Railroad for five years. Due to slow business in the winter, Crescent College opened and provided education to females until 1934.

In 1937, Norman Baker, a charismatic yet fraudulent figure, acquired the Crescent Hotel and transformed the hotel into the Baker Cancer Clinic, claiming to possess the elusive “cure” for cancer. Despite his grandiose proclamations, Baker’s treatments and medical theories held no credibility in the legitimate medical world.

In 1946, Herbert A. Byfield, John R. Constantine, Dwight O. Nichols, and Herbert E. Shutter breathed new life into the historic establishment, ensuring that its grandeur was meticulously preserved. One of the key strategies employed by the new owners was to establish travel vacation packages in collaboration with the Frisco Railroad.

In 1967, a devastating fire, attributed to faulty wiring, ravaged the penthouse level and a significant portion of the fourth floor of the Crescent Hotel. The destructive incident prompted necessary renovations and repairs.

In 1972, Crescent Heights Developments, Inc., led by a group of investors comprising Dr. and Mrs. Sam H. Kouri and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Feagins, acquired the hotel. Their collective goal was to revive the Crescent to its former glory while simultaneously introducing modern amenities. It was during this period that the first reports of supernatural occurrences surfaced, adding to the hotel’s mystique.

Over the past 25 years, the Crescent has gained a reputation as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” thanks to 17 national and international paranormal television shows that have featured this Historic Hotel of America. Ghostly aspects are showcased during nightly hotel ghost tours.

Most recently, the Crescent introduced a thrilling addition: a comprehensive year-round schedule of daily resort activities and the Frisco Sporting Club. Guests can enjoy popular activities like hatchet throwing, large outdoor games, and free-flying swings. The hotel also offers scheduled nature hikes, walking trails, mountain biking trails, history tours, sunrise yoga, wine tastings, watercolor art classes, and much more.

C&L