495-497 Broadway in Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Arms

History of 495-497 Broadway: Saratoga Arms is an 1870 beautifully restored Second Empire brick hotel. It was built by Loren Putnam, grandson of Gideon Putnam, and has been known as The Putnam, The Walton and The Windsor.

In 1915, 495 Broadway was the home of Dr. Bryon Murray, a physician and surgeon, with his office on the lower level. A rooming house was at 497 Broadway on the upper floors and the offices of Dr. Merritt Van Aernum, a physician, and Frank M. Jenkins, a lawyer, had offices on the lower level.

In the 1950s, Alice Bode inherited the property and operated a rooming house for 45 years until her death at age 93.

In 1997, Kathleen and Noel Smith purchased the historic property which was is disrepair. Extensive renovation was done, retaining tin ceilings, ornate moldings, original ornate plaster, and a grand staircase. Beautifully restored was the wide wraparound Saratoga porch.

In 2005, an addition was built adjoining the front building. This expansion features the President Grant Conference Room. The name honors President Ulysses S. Grant because owner Noel Smith is a Grant descendant. Portraits of Grant, and the Grant White House china are displayed on the wall which are a tribute to our 18th President who died at Mt. McGregor on July 23, 1885.

The Board of Trustees of the Friends of Grant Cottage meets in this room monthly.

Today, 495-497 Broadway serves as a 31 room hotel welcomes guests to Saratoga Springs while maintaining the tradition of Gideon Putnam (Saratoga Springs’ founding father) and his family.

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The Centennial Series

The city of Saratoga Springs was chartered on April 7, 1915. In celebration of our 100 years this summer, Roohan Realty brings you “The Centennial Series,” featuring the history of local properties – from origin to what we see today.

Do you own a historic property or know one you’d like to see featured? Submit an inquiry and our contributing writer will contact you.