I wonder if this was a step down or a step up. Whether the "local history" line was cheaper or more expensive.

The Bellevue still exists, but it's called The Marker now. Said the manager when it opened:

"We shall not only cater to the better class of permanent guests,'-' says air. Zander, "but also to the tourist and transient trade who desire intelligent service and hotel excellence with exclusiveness not heretofore obtainable in our other hotels."

Transient really has taken a beating in the last forty years.