Corran Esplanade, Oban. PA34 5PZ. Tel: 0631 562353.
Argyll Hotel, Oban. 2008.
The Argyll Hotel. 1896.
Mr J D Smith. 1896.
In Oban all travelers to the West of Scotland know there are two steamboat piers, one at the railway station the other at the end of the esplanade. Exactly at the head of the Argyll Hotel, owned by J D Smith.
Mr Smith was for twenty years acting as steward in Mr MacBraynes steamers. He was born in Brora, Sutherlandshire, on leaving home after completing his education Mr Smith at once joined Mr MacBraynes steamers as a boy, and by diligence, attention to his duties, and perseverance, he gained promotion, step by step, till he rose to the highest position he could attain, that of chief steward.
In 1889 having gained the respect of his masters and compeers alike, with mutual regrets he left the service with which he had been so long and happily connected, and having youth, energy and enterprise on his side, determined to strike out for himself.
He was fortunate in securing a lease of the Argyll Hotel, Oban, a handsome structure built in the Scottish baronial style and one of the most comfortably arranged houses for caring on the business in the north. From his long practical experience in catering for tourists, commercial men and travelers of all kinds, Mr Smith, of course, knew their wished almost intuitively and to his credit be it said, spares neither himself nor his efficient staff in seeing that their wants are supplied and their wishes attended to. Mr Smith was assisted by his wife in the running of the hotel.
The Argyll Hotel is now demolished.