In between camping destinations, we decided to check into the Winnedumah Hotel in Independence for a shower, comfy bed, and restocking of food. What a neat place!
This historic hotel welcomed the cowboy actors who filmed in nearby Alabama Hills through the years. After returning home from our trip, we watched Roy Rogers' first movie. The plot was about drought and water rights. Amazing that it isn't much different now then it was in 1938. We saw the hotel in one of the scenes from the movie.
Tributes to the Paiute Indians are also seen in the hotel. In fact, Winnedumah is named after the Paiute medicine man that saved his tribe. This unique hotel is owned and run by Celia and Frank Montoya. They worked 4 long years to restore this hotel after major damage to the roof from a winter storm. The warmth and hospitality of this place starts with a delicious beakfast prepared by Celia every morning. In the short time we were there, I heard Celia say, "I love this hotel." at least 4 times. It shows!
A handmade gift from supporters during their long journey sits at their front desk. The quote on this gift is appropriate for them as well as the rest of us who struggle to make a dream come to fruition.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
Lao-Tzu
Best wishes!!
