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Postcard circa 1966 (detail)
 
Hollywood, Florida -- 2900 Polk St
 
Opened in the middle 1960s, Hollywood's classic style Motor Lodge was built on a parcel of ground that was set back from Hollywood Boulevard but still still visible from it and the then newly completed Interstate 95.
 
 
 
 
Photograph January 2001
 
Although it is difficult to see, note the guest wing stuccofication that occurred between 2001 and 2002 as is evidenced in these photos.
 
Photograph August 2002: Courtesy of Bob Venditti
 
 

The last of the original Howard Johnson's Motor Lodges in south Florida, by May of 2006 the location had become the unbranded Hollywood Gateway Inn.

Sadly the condition of the Motor Lodge had declined greatly between 2004 and 2006. Nonetheless it was packed with patrons upon my June of 2006 visit, and a hand written sign in the Gate Lodge announced that there were no rooms available.

Right: Long ago plucked from its spot atop the spire cupola, the Lamplighter weather vane was placed on the connector between the two guest buildings. Alas it has been horribly mutilated and came to serve as a pigeon-pooping-roost.
Photograph June 24, 2006
 
 
Photographs February 2004
 
 
 
 
Photographs June 24, 2006
 
 
 
 
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