Two-Mile racers pass the historic Blennerhassett Hotel in the first quarter mile of the race.

Before runners and walkers turn onto Avery Street from Fourth Street, they will pass the historic Blennerhassett Hotel. Col. William Nelson Chancellor, who went from bank teller to bank president, built the hotel in 1889 to serve as a luxury stay for millionaires as a result of a gas and oil boom. Now, the hotel serves in many capacities, such as offering spa treatments, a restaurant, a speakeasy, and more. The grandeur of The Blennerhassett from the late 1800s can still be seen today, despite three renovations. The hotel was a pioneer of its time with electric and gas lighting as the city of Parkersburg had electricity for only a year prior to the hotel opening. In 1982, the hotel was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Some famous people have stayed at the hotel, such as President John F. Kennedy, Chelsea Clinton, and singer Debby Boone. The Blennerhassett Hotel is a popular place to stay the night before the race.

The News and Sentinel Half Marathon and Two-Mile Race will be held Aug. 16. Register for the races at: https://www.newsandsentinelhalfmarathon.com/. Questions? Contact Race Coordinator Sarah Watson at halfmarathon@newsandsentinel.com.