Remember This? Christopher Plummer's link to a local hotel

What could an Oscar-winning actor have to do with a local hotel?

The Sault Ste. Marie Public Library tells us, below:

The Algonquin Hotel, located at the corner of Queen and Pim Streets was built in 1888 by William H. Plummer. 

Well-known Canadian actor Christopher Plummer is a descendant of this Plummer family.  

William H. Plummer also owned a thriving grocery business located across the street which led to this intersection becoming known as Plummer’s Corner. 

Designer and architect, J.B. Sweatts created a Victorian style hotel with wide aisles, fireplaces in each room and twelve-foot ceilings. 

Francis H. Clergue is believed to have been the first registered guest in the new hotel.  

Balconies on the front of the hotel were a popular place for guests to have high tea while they watched arrivals and departures at the Plummer Dock (later renamed the Government Dock).   

On August 29, 1912, a luncheon was held in honour of Queen Victoria’s third son, the H.R.H. Arthur, Duke of Connaught and their Royal Highnesses, the Duchess and Princess Patricia, in the dining room of the Algonquin. 

In his role as Governor General of Canada, he was visiting the Sault to commemorate the incorporation of the city. 

Over the years, many other important people enjoyed the hospitality of this premier hotel in the city.    

Find out more of what the Public Library has to offer at www.ssmpl.ca and look for more Remember This? columns here.