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Enough time has passed that we now feel comfortable sharing a sensitive and remarkable story from the Weatherford’s past.
In April 1997, the Weatherford received a letter from a Dutch woman addressed simply to “The Owner of the Hotel Weatherford Hostel.” In it, she described traveling through Flagstaff in May 1966 and staying at a hotel within walking distance of the old Greyhound station. She enclosed a photograph (shown here) taken from her room, which allowed longtime Weatherford proprietor Henry Taylor to identify the hotel as the Weatherford—specifically a room that is now Room 58 (then Room 66).
Henry replied by fax, confirming that the Weatherford was indeed the hotel she remembered. Several months later, in October 1997, the woman—whom we will refer to as Dr. W.P.—wrote back with the true reason for her inquiry.
She explained that she was a young, independent Dutch woman who had a brief relationship with an American truck driver who was also staying at the hotel. After returning to the Netherlands, she discovered she was pregnant. She later gave birth to a son, whom she placed for adoption with an American family.
Years later, after marrying, she reconnected with her son and maintained a close relationship with him. Following the passing of his adoptive parents, her son became curious about his biological father. That search ultimately led Dr. W.P. back to Flagstaff—and to the Weatherford.
She asked Henry if he would be willing to consult the hotel’s old guest registry, which had been preserved from the years when the Weatherford operated as a hostel. On May 24, 1966—the exact date she remembered—Dr. W.P.’s name was indeed recorded.
Unfortunately, despite careful review, there were no American guests listed in the registry in the days surrounding her stay. The trail ended there.
Dr. W.P. and her husband later sent messages thanking Henry for his efforts. While grateful, it was clear they were disappointed that the mystery remained unsolved.
Out of respect for privacy, we are not sharing the original correspondence or images from the registry. However, if any history-minded sleuths believe they may be able to help us reconnect with Dr. W.P.—or even shed light on the identity of the mysterious American truck driver—we invite you to send us a direct message.
Some stories refuse to stay buried. This may be one of them.
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