Let’s head back to the pages of the Delta Optimist 1973 to see the “ultra modern” facelift with “dazzling” renovations at the Ladner Hotel.
The changes, which included a new cabaret, cost then owner Sid Roitman $210,000.
At the time, Roitman told the Delta Optimist the business at the corner of Delta and Bridge streets was “a working class hotel” and its prices would reflect that fact.
“No expense has been spared,” he said. “And while we have an exciting and modern facility, we want this to be a quality place for the ordinary working people of Delta.”
The renovations included new mood lighting in the lounge with imported chandeliers from Italy, and under the glow were the finest Brentwood chairs and furniture.
“Quality it is. Finished with wallpaper, which cost over $20 a roll and carpet which cost in excess of $20 a yard, the entire cabaret and lounge atmosphere is that of a first class downtown establishment,” an article read.
The new hotel had air conditioning on the first floor and even colour television in every room.
To have a variety of live music, the main entrance to the establishment was changed to be on Laidlaw Street.
Originally opened in 1951, the hotel and lounge would go through a lot of owners and different management over the decades.
The hotel was purchased by Fred Leippi and Joe Clive in the mid-1970s.
The business, later renamed the Village Inn, would go on to be home to various drinking establishments including The Grail nightclub by the end.
