This week in Rossland history, we turn our attention to Mrs. Margaret Elizabeth Allan, a formidable figure in the city’s early business scene.
In 1895, she opened what would become one of the most well-regarded establishments in town — Hotel Allan — and successfully operated it for more than a decade before selling the business.
The illustrious Hotel Allan, described in Harold Kingsmill’s 1897 account as the “pride of Rossland,” was a popular destination for the city’s businessmen, according to Rossland Museum staff.
The hotel featured all the modern appliances of the time, hosted lively parties and community events, and was operated by a capable team selected by Mrs. Allan herself.
Margaret Allan stood out not only for her business success but for how she defied the gender norms of her era.
Despite multiple marriages and divorces — uncommon for women in the late 19th century — she was well-regarded in the community as a savvy, respected entrepreneur.
Kingsmill described her as “a lady of education and culture, of graceful manners, with the ready and tender sympathies of a mother and a tact and judgment in business affairs unusual in her sex.”
The hotel continued to operate under various owners until it was destroyed by fire in 1978.
Learn more about pioneering women in Rossland’s history at www.rosslandmuseum.ca/women.
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