After serving lunch to her patrons on October 12, 1909, Mary Bryant hung up her apron for the last time – at least, for now. The 67-year-old widow was taking a much-needed vacation from running her hotel by Elgin railroad depot. She and daughter, Myrtle, planned to spend a year traveling and visiting family.
That evening Mrs. Bryant handed the keys to Sam and Ella (Shaffer) Greenley. Sam was a long-time drayman, hauling goods to and from the railroad, so living next to the depot was advantageous. Sam could continue his dray service while Ella handled the day-to-day business of Hotel Bryant, including running the restaurant.
They had their share of trials, especially with accident-prone Sam. On February 15, 1910, Sam ignited gas can fumes while tending to the hotel fireplaces. The explosion rocked the house and left Sam with a badly blistered left arm, not to mention burning off his eyebrows and part of his mustache. That summer he broke his foot, dropping a massive block of ice off his dray cart in the July heat.
Despite these setbacks, the hotel was successful. Business was lively, with railroad employees becoming regular lunch customers. When October 1910 rolled around, Mrs. Bryant took over again and the Greenleys moved out – and into the Center Street home where the Bryants spent their year of leisure.
They took with them a rocking chair, left on the porch of Hotel Bryant by the “railroad boys” in appreciation for all the meals they’d eaten at Ella's table.
