The Storied History of our hotel & town
A Presidential Legacy:
Theodore Roosevelt at Hotel Packwood
Built in 1912, Hotel Packwood has welcomed countless visitors over the years, but perhaps none more legendary than President Theodore Roosevelt—at least according to local lore. It’s said that Roosevelt stayed here when the hotel was brand new, and his visit left such an impression that a hand-carved statue of him stands proudly on the porch.
Roosevelt had a close friendship with Gifford Pinchot, the first head of the United States Forest Service and a pioneer of the national conservation movement. Their partnership and shared dedication to preserving America's wild landscapes played a pivotal role in the creation of the nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Roosevelt’s historic visit remains a celebrated chapter in the hotel's rich history, symbolizing a time when conservation ideals took root and shaped the region we cherish today.
Our History
In the summer of 1854, explorers James Longmire and William Packwood discovered this scenic land while searching for a more navigable route through the Cascade Mountains. What began as a settlement named Sulfur Springs later became Lewis, and in 1930, it was officially dubbed Packwood.
During World War II, demand for timber brought hundreds of miles of new logging roads into the high country. After the war, the lumber mills remained, cementing Packwood’s place as a vital hub for the timber economy. Hotel Packwood stood at the heart of it all, serving as a welcoming retreat for hardworking loggers.
Remnants of this rugged past are still visible today. The original floors bear the telltale marks of spikes from loggers' caulk boots. Burn marks and a weathered ring mark the spot where a potbelly stove once warmed the hotel’s guests. These echoes of history remind us that Packwood isn’t just a destination—it's a living story.
A Living Story
A Family Affair
In Recent Years
Two years after their marriage in 2005, Dean and Tracy Croshaw purchased the old ranger station here in Packwood that had been boarded-up for 7 years. As two educators from Yakima with a *newly* blended family of 9, many thought their endeavor was... ambitious.
With many trips to Packwood, and help from friends and family, the Station became a usable space for seasonal workers and short term renters. The couple sold the Station and bought Historic Hotel Packwood during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. Many hands worked at restoring and renovating this historic 1912 hotel for about a year. Similar to the Station, this restoration is a product of dreamers. Notably Tracy and her oldest daughter Corinne played major roles in the design.
Enter the current owner
…and Tracy’s youngest daughter- me, Alyssa! I had been going back to school to pursue medicine when I came home to Packwood “just for the summer to help open the business.” About two years later on January 1st, 2024 I purchased the hotel.
I was in the service industry for about twelve years before arriving in hospitality. I am passionate about people, the outdoors, and all things artistic. I wish to create an oasis in the middle of town with a romantic old-world feel that gives guests a feeling of relaxation, history, and charm. I whole-heartedly adore this town, my family, and job. I am honored to be the current caretaker of this beloved, historic, building and delighted to welcome you to this extra special corner of the world.
