Commercial Hotel
Osceola, Missouri
From St. Clair County Library files, Durl Barrnett Clipping Collection;
The Osage Chigger (date not available), by Donetta Garman
COMMERCIAL HOTEL, OSCEOLA, MO
In 1850, a frame building was constructed where the present Commercial Hotel now
stands, serving as the Pollard House and Union Inn. In 1861, Union Officer,
General Jim Lane burned almost all of Osceola and the old hotel was destroyed by
fire.
The present building was erected in 1867 with hopes that the town of Osceola
would rebuild.
In the 1880’s, there were Drummers Rooms where salesmen could come to display
their wares and “drum up” business.
Many a poker game was played in the parlor.
The books show that Jesse James, Frank James and Cole Younger were guests. Other
famous guests were silent movie hero, Tom Mix; fan dancer, Sally Rand; and
Former President Harry Truman ate in the basement cafe whenever he was in the
area.
It graces the square in present day Osceola.
Submitted by Mary Zeiler