Expert: Graham Thomas - 7/17/2007

Question
Hello there...I was wondering if you might be able to help me find some information on a Temperence Hotel that was located in Russell Square in 1894.  I am currently transcribing a journal from that time and I can't make out the complete name and address. I believe the name, at the time, was the Eton's Temperence Hotel, and the address begins with #22 (can't make out the next word), Russell Square, London England.  I do have a photo of the journal page if you would be willing to look at it.  Any information you can provide me with would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for your time!

Answer
Dear Kathi
I googled this as i did not personally know of this hotel but there seem to have been a number of temperance hotels in that area.

I found this one online which is still a hotel "Fitting right into that history is the Thistle Hotel, an old Victorian building with red bricks and curved windows built in 1898. Then it was called the Kingsley, known as a Temperance Hotel, “in one of the healthiest districts of London” said its brochure of the time."

It could be that the hotel you are talking about has been demoilished as there are at least two large modern properties on the main square next to the Russell hotel itself. I'm not sure if these were bombed or just demolished in the 60s...

This link has details about 22 Russell square which is now used by the university but was previously a private house I think.

http://www.ssees.ac.uk/building/news.htm

my email is gtgrahamthomas@hotmail.com

let me know if i can be of further help

Graham