The line ran through the Antelope Valley, linking San Francisco to Los Angeles.

While the Los Angeles-Owens River Aqueduct was being built, many of the construction crews were housed in the hotel from 1905 to 1913.

It was in danger of being condemned and razed when, in 1974, Tri Robinson's eighth grade class at Park View Intermediate School decided that saving the hotel was worthwhile.

The students met with local civic groups and The Western Hotel Historical Society was born.

The Western Hotel in 1992 was remodeled to a small museum and offers free tours.