Paducah's Palmer House Hotel was the finest establishment in Paducah at the time it was built. Costing $135,000 to erect and an additional $35,000 to furnish in the 1890's, it was considered the ultimate destination for weary travelers. It boasted 25 guest rooms, 6 staircases, 9 bathrooms, central steam heat, and electric elevators. Bay windows on the upper floors caught the evening breezes and cooled the rooms for comfort. Local investor Elbridge Palmer pledged $7,000 of personal funding, and in return, saw his name above the front door. Rooms cost $2.00, $2.50 and $3.00 when the establishment opened. A four course dinner, complete with white linen tablecloth, Haviland China, and silver cutlery was available for 60 cents! The hotel was located on Broadway.