The Connor Hotel, a towering testament to Joplin’s early 20th-century prosperity, stood as a four-story beacon of Neo-Classical style from 1908 to 1978. This grand edifice, once the city’s tallest building, embodied Joplin’s architectural heritage and served as a prominent landmark for over seven decades.
Built by a Visionary, Named for Legacy
The Connor Hotel was the brainchild of Thomas Connor, a prominent Joplin businessman with a significant stake in the Joplin Hotel. Sadly, Thomas Connor passed away in 1907, just before the hotel’s completion. To honor his vision and contribution to Joplin’s development, the hotel was named after him. The Dean Brothers, known for operating the Connor Hotel Restaurant, took over the hotel’s operations.
A Symbol of Joplin’s Growth
The Connor Hotel’s construction marked a significant milestone in Joplin’s development. Its impressive height, towering over the surrounding buildings, symbolized the city’s burgeoning prosperity during the lead and zinc mining boom. The hotel became a hub for business travelers, entrepreneurs, and visitors, catering to their needs with luxurious accommodations and exceptional service.
Witnessing a Century
The Connor Hotel remained a prominent fixture in Joplin’s social scene for over seven decades. It witnessed the city’s transformation from a mining hub to a thriving center of commerce and industry. While the Connor Hotel was eventually demolished in 1978, its legacy lives on as a reminder of Joplin’s rich architectural heritage and its vibrant early 20th-century past.
