Opened
in 1965, the Fall River or Somerset Howard Johnson's has
seen its share of changes over the years. The old Motor
Lodge remained largely intact -- even with a recognizable
A-frame Gate Lodge until relatively recently. Even in its
early Quality Inn state, the roof line could still be discerned.
However by 2005 the Gate Lodge's distinctive shape could
no longer be seen as its exterior had been boxed in.
While the guest rooms lost their sliders and several other
key HoJo's features, many of the units retained original
glass shower doors. Moreover, a newer but original HoJo's
guest wing featured nonstandard bathrooms. With its many
innovative features, Howard Johnson's was ahead of its time
and Motor Lodges like Somerset have been able to enjoy life
after the Orange Roof and still offer modern lodging services.
Note
that the friendly staff afforded Dan and I an extensive
tour of the Somerset HoJo's turned Quality
Inn. |