The St. James Hotel in Selma, Ala., has reopened following a restoration and joined Marriott Bonvoy's Series by Marriott collection. Managed by Spire Hospitality, the hotel is the ninth property worldwide to operate under the brand.
Overlooking the Alabama River, the landmark hotel has been part of Selma's history since 1837 and is recognized as the nation's only remaining riverfront antebellum hotel.
"The St. James Hotel adds a truly one-of-a-kind property to Spire's growing and diverse portfolio," said Mike Hogan, area general manager for Spire Hospitality, in a statement. "Spire specializes in operating properties like this one, where disciplined management and genuine respect for a building's history go hand in hand, and few carry a legacy as rich as a landmark that has stood for nearly two centuries."
Hogan added that Spire will focus on delivering the experience expected of Series by Marriott guests while preserving the property's historic character. The 55-room boutique hotel is positioned for travelers seeking access to Selma's arts, culture and historic attractions. The property is within walking distance of the National Voting Rights Museum, the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the Old Town Historic District and other sites along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.
The hotel's history is closely tied to that of the city. Benjamin Sterling Turner, an enslaved man who managed the hotel, kept it operating during the Civil War and later became Alabama's first African American member of the U.S. House of Representatives. The property also has connections to notable historical figures and events that helped shape Selma's legacy.
"The St. James has anchored downtown Selma since 1837, and you feel that the moment you walk in," said Cymethia Rudolph, general manager of the St. James Hotel. "From the Alabama River at our back to the Civil Rights landmarks and architectural gems within walking distance, this hotel belongs to Selma."
The reopening marks Spire Hospitality's third property in Alabama.