[2]The Waldo was designed by American Architect Harrison Albright, a seven-story brick and terra cotta structure, rose in Clarksburg, West Virginia, in 1904.

[3][4] The Beaux-Arts style heavily influenced the hotel's design, evident in its symmetrical facade, prominent corner tower, and classical architectural elements.

Ten marble columns, each accented with ivory and gold, stood guard, framing ornate plasterwork ceilings adorned with Beaux-Arts motifs.

Large windows, draped in heavy velvet, framed views of the bustling city, while plush armchairs and sofas invited lingering conversations.

Mahogany furniture, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, housed beds adorned with carved headboards and crisp linens, promising restful slumber.

Private dining rooms, each adorned with unique flourishes, catered to intimate gatherings, while state-of-the-art amenities like electric lighting and an ice plant underscored the hotel's commitment to modernity and comfort.

In 1964, Salem College, a recently accredited institution, embarked on a bold expansion by acquiring the historic Waldo Hotel in Clarksburg, West Virginia.

This marked a significant step from its humble beginnings in the city, having previously operated out of a small donated building on West Pike Street since 1958.

The Vandalia Heritage Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing communities and neighborhoods in West Virginia through historic preservation and redevelopment.

Additionally, some within the city government believe that demolishing the Waldo could free up valuable land for revitalization projects, potentially boosting Clarksburg's economic prospects.