Carey House

Carey House is a five-story brick building with a prominent tower at its northeast corner and a mansard roof featuring large semicircular arched openings. The structure displays Second Empire architectural details and was designed to function as a hotel for travelers.

Construction began in 1887 when businessman John B. Carey initiated the project to create a major lodging destination in Wichita. National recognition came in 1972 when the building was added to the Register of Historic Places for its architectural worth.

The name honors founder John B. Carey, whose vision created a lodging place that served as a gathering spot for travelers and business people for many years. The building continues to shape how locals and visitors experience this part of the city today.

Access is from East Douglas Avenue where the hotel sits in the downtown business area. The building is easy to reach on foot and sits within a larger preservation zone that includes several neighboring historic structures.

In December 1900, Carrie Nation, a noted temperance activist, carried out a surprise raid on the hotel bar. This dramatic event added fuel to the American Prohibition movement and connected the building to that historical struggle.

Location: Wichita

Inception: 1880s

Architectural style: Second Empire style

Floors above the ground: 5

Made from material: brick

Address: 525 East Douglas Avenue

GPS coordinates: 37.68583,-97.33139

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07