Postcard Friendship Friday #8

New Tuller Hotel, Detroit, Michigan

Today's postcard features a picture of the New Tuller Hotel in Detroit Michigan located at Bagley and Grand Circus Park. It was one of 4 hotels built by Lew Tuller in 1905. Tuller lost control of the hotels during the depression, and the Tuller was sold. Although in disrepair for many years it remained open until 1976.

The message, postmarked May 23, 1917 reads:

Mrs. Clara Thompson

19th Ave

Haverhille Mass

Dear Clara,

I have been waiting for the letter that you promised me but in vain. I presume you are very busy all the time. Do you work in the hat shop yet and do you have lots of work. I have always had boarders ever since I have been here but I am not going to have any more dlman (?) made me let them go so I am just going to let my rooms which will pay my rent which is $40 a month. I have 8 large rooms and attic. We sleep in the attic and I let my 4 chambers. I am lonesome and not much money in it now that things are so high. I would just love to see you Clara. I hope you will write soon. from Mrs. Ellison

Tuller Hotel Sign as it appeared in 1986

The Tuller Hotel was demolished in 1992

This may have been the "attic" that Mrs. Ellison spoke of

This Singer doesn't sing anymore

The Ballroom

The Back Story:

Mrs. Ellison bears more than a little resemblance to Lizzy Borden. The boarders, of whom she speaks, mostly aged and single gentlemen of modest means were dispatched without fanfare after paying 6 months advance rent plus a small deposit to cover china breakage and wear and tear. The well appointed parlor contained burgundy velvet sofas and settees stuffed with horse hair and adorned with finely crocheted antimacassars. Parlor palms, a facade Vernice style fireplace and a Victrola were at the disposal of these gentleman. Spirits were strictly forbidden as was cigar smoking and guests of the fair sex. A light breakfast was served promptly at 8:00 am, luncheon at 1:00 and dinner at 7:00. It was expected that everyone would retire by 9:00 and all lights extinguished by 10:00.

The borders frequently inquired about scraping and banging noises heard after 10:00 PM. Mrs. Ellison explained that she often used the dumb waiter as there was much to do after everyone else was abed. When borders inquired about a certain Mr. So and So who failed to appear at breakfast, Mrs. Ellison would create a believable tale about a sudden death or illness in the family. The boarders would nod their heads, sigh deeply and then continue spooning out perfectly made soft boiled eggs served in lovely egg cups adorned with violets and small yellow butterflies.

Mrs, Clara Thompson suspected the comings and goings of her friend's boarders were questionable as similar disappearances occurred in her own home in Haverville while Mrs. Ellison vacationed with her one summer. Mrs. Thompson delayed making inquiries or searching about on her property because the upside of her friend's visit and her generous offer to "turn over" the garden plot was the most bountiful vegetable garden east of the Mohawk Valley. She would certainly NOT, however, encourage their friendship by answering her letters and postcards.

For more Postcard Friendship Friday fun, stop by and visit Marie at Voila! Vintage Postcards!