Iconic Manila Hotel real photo postcards

Manila Hotel is one of the most photographed hotels in the country since her establishment in 1912.

With the advent of photography. First known photo studios were introduced in Manila in the later part of the 19th century. Taking photos of people, fiesta, landmarks, recuerdo de patay (memories of the dead) became more popular. Manila hotel postcard with the use of photos became an instant hot commodity among collectors of Filipiniana, memorabilia, postcard, photo collectors not only in the country but also from all over the world.

Manila Hotel photo postcard circa 1925

Manila Hotel real photo postcards

The Manila bay harbor was dredged with millions of tons of mud, gravel and sand were used to reclaim and extend the Luneta, making room for the Elks Club, the Army Navy Club and the crown jewel of the project was a premiere hotel with modern amenities that soon to be called the Manila Hotel.

The Malecon drive which was popular as seaside passageway and promenade area during the Spanish regime was widen and reclaimed. Eventually the drive became Dewey boulevard or Roxas boulevard.

The moat which connects parts of intramuros or walled city to the Manila bay was filled and turned into a municipal golf course and garden.

The site of the hotel was next to Pier 7, where it was now possible to berth four large passenger ships.

Pier 13 is also near the hotel which added more traffic and guests to the hotel.

Visitors can book a room at the hotel and short calesa ride into the historic city centers like Intramuros, Ermita, Malate and Luneta park. During those times, the social event would center in escolta. Eventually the grand social hall of the hotel serves as a nerve center to even the political meetings and gatherings.

It was the in-thing for the wealthy and socialite during American colonial regime to be spotted within Manila Hotel, much of today’s Bonifacio Global City or BGC.

Mr. Daniel Burnham commissioned American architect William Parsons to design the Manila Hotel as well as many buildings with the California style mission which was in vogue in many parts of the United States and Europe.

Manila Hotel circa 1947 photo postcard

Manila Hotel circa 1957 with post war cars and trees growing

Manila Hotel with large acacia and narra trees circa 1959

Please try to visit the other previous article links for Manila Hotel :

American Regime Manila thru postcards part 3: https://renz15.wordpress.com/2019/09/13/american-regime-manila-thru-postcards-part-3/

Manila Hotel postcard by Cardinell Vincent :https://renz15.wordpress.com/2020/10/27/manila-hotel-postcard-cardinell-vincent-company/

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