The St. Elmo Hotel and Bon Ton Restaurant have been integral to Ouray, Colorado’s hospitality scene since the late 19th century. Katherine “Kitty” O’Brien Heit purchased the Bon Ton in 1890, and its success enabled her to establish the St. Elmo Hotel in 1898, primarily serving miners. Kitty was a staunch supporter of miners’ unions, hosting events for the Miners’ Union and the Western Federation of Labor at the hotel. Affectionately known as “Aunt Kitty,” she was revered for providing a homely refuge for miners during arduous times. Following her passing in 1915, the Ouray Herald lauded her numerous acts of kindness and her role as a maternal figure to many.
Now, after 127 years, the St. Elmo Hotel and Bon Ton Restaurant are on the market, represented by LIV Sotheby’s International Realty brokers Jay and Peggy Raible. Jay describes it as a rare opportunity to own a legacy asset with Victorian-era architecture and multiple revenue streams on Ouray’s Main Street. The property, listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings, features 11 unique guest rooms, a dining room, commercial kitchen, and a patio with views of the San Juan peaks. Its prime location offers access to Telluride’s resort skiing, hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventures, with Montrose Regional Airport less than 40 miles away.
LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
For more details, you can read the original blog post here: https://livsothebysrealty.blog/2025/04/09/historic-st-elmo-hotel-helped-shape-hospitality-in-ouray/
