William L Spencer Center (Plaza Hotel), Colorado Springs

The William L Spencer Center, historically known as the Plaza Hotel, stands as a prominent landmark in Colorado Springs, boasting a captivating blend of Renaissance and Mission Revival architectural styles. Constructed in 1901 by W. W. & G. F. Atkinson, this four-story hotel features a striking façade crafted from cream-colored pressed brick. Its architectural significance earned it a coveted spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, recognizing its contribution to the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Originally serving as the Plaza Hotel, this iconic building witnessed various transitions over the years. While it continued to operate as a hotel until the late 1960s, a portion of the premises briefly served as the corporate headquarters of the Nestlé Company in the early 1950s. Additionally, during its heyday, a drugstore located on the first story of the hotel's northeast corner catered to students, offering prescriptions, toiletries, and a popular soda fountain.

In 1991, Colorado College seized the opportunity to acquire the building, renaming it the William L Spencer Center in honor of William I. Spencer, a distinguished alumnus. Spencer, a Colorado College graduate and prominent figure in the banking sector, played a pivotal role in the institution's development. As a member of the Colorado College Board of Trustees and later its chairman, Spencer's leadership and commitment left an indelible mark on the college's legacy. The renaming ceremony, held on October 5, 1991, marked a fitting tribute to Spencer's enduring contributions to Colorado College and the broader community.