HISTORIC STORY

A Legacy in the Heart of Grand Junction: The History of Hotel Melrose

Nestled in the heart of Grand Junction, Colorado, the Hotel Melrose is a landmark steeped in rich history and the pioneering spirit of the American West. The story of this iconic hotel begins in the late 1800s when the Ponsford family migrated from England to the rugged landscapes of Kannah Creek, Colorado.

Back in England, the Ponsfords had worked at a hotel, where the seed of their dream was planted—one day, they would own and operate a hotel of their own. After settling in Colorado, they established a cattle ranch in Kannah Creek, working tirelessly to save enough money to realize their vision. Years of hard work on the ranch paid off, and the family was finally ready to pursue their dream.

In 1908, the Ponsfords moved to Downtown Grand Junction with a singular goal in mind: to build the Hotel Melrose. The family’s dedication was evident in every detail of the project, from the careful planning to the manual labor. In a testament to their determination and work ethic, the Ponsfords dug the hotel’s basement by hand, laying the foundation for what would become a cherished landmark in the community.

The Hotel Melrose quickly became a hub for travelers exploring the scenic beauty and burgeoning opportunities of Western Colorado. It embodied the spirit of Colorado’s western roots, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comforts. Over the decades, the hotel has witnessed Grand Junction’s transformation from a modest railroad town to a thriving cultural and economic center.

The Ponsford family owned and operated the Hotel Melrose for four generations, a period that spanned nearly a century. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the hotel was sold for the first time, marking the end of an era. The last family member to live and operate the hotel was Marycaye Daniels, who still spends part of the year in Grand Junction. Marycaye lived in the Melrose for 18 years while her mother managed the hotel. During the most recent renovation, Marycaye graciously opened up her family's history, sharing personal stories and family photos that had never been seen by the public. Hand-picked black-and-white photos, all copies of her originals, are now displayed throughout the hotel, offering guests a rare glimpse into the personal history of the Ponsford family.

Despite modern updates, the Hotel Melrose still retains much of its original charm. The original staircase and post remain intact, as do the main hallways that have seen generations of guests pass through. Where the hotel’s living room once welcomed visitors, now stands the Melrose Spirit Co., a space that continues to serve as the heart of the hotel. Just as it did in the past, it acts as the hotel's living room today—a place where guests can gather, relax, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic landmark.

In the mid-20th century, the hotel underwent renovations that preserved its historical essence while adding modern amenities. The addition of the now-iconic neon pink signage symbolized a bold embrace of contemporary design while honoring the hotel’s heritage.

Today, under the stewardship of Fort + Home Capital, the Hotel Melrose continues to stand as a cornerstone of Grand Junction’s hospitality scene. Its recent redesign, which harmonizes Western motifs with modern sophistication, has been lauded for creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.

As Grand Junction continues to grow and evolve, the Hotel Melrose remains a cherished part of its history, embodying the enduring spirit of the American West. With its commitment to preserving its past while embracing the future, the hotel is poised to welcome generations of guests seeking an authentic Colorado experience.