The Stories Behind Our Room Names

Slater Room

John Fox Slater, a dedicated philanthropist and advocate for education, was the original owner of the building that is now Hotel Callista. We named this room in his honor as it embodies his generosity and commitment to progress. If you’d like to explore his legacy further, visit the Slater Memorial Museum, only five minutes away.

Dodd Room

Senator Thomas J. Dodd was a prominent figure in Connecticut’s political landscape. His contributions resonate deeply within our community, so we named this suite after him, paying homage to his unwavering dedication to public service and advocacy for social justice. We recommend visiting the Senator Thomas J. Dodd Memorial Stadium during your stay and catching a lively Sea Unicorns baseball game.

Rose Room

The Rose Room celebrates Norwich’s endearing nickname, the “Rose City.” Norwich earned this title in the 1850s when renowned preacher Henry Ward Beecher visited and marveled at its beautiful gardens. Inspired by its floral splendor, he affectionately dubbed it “The Rose of New England.” It is also worth noting that the previous occupant of our property was the Majestic Rose Dinner Theater.

The Majestic Rose Dinner Theater was located at this property before our extensive renovations.

Norwich Marina and the Yantic River. Photo Credit JJBers.

Yantic Room

Step into the Yantic Room and be swept away by a comforting aurora of tranquil beauty. The Yantic River is one of Norwich’s iconic bodies of water, so we named this suite after the natural gem that winds through our historic town.

Norwich Room

The Norwich Room nods to Norwich, CT, where our hotel proudly resides. Founded in 1659 by settlers led by Major John Mason and Rev. James Fitch, Norwich flourished around Norwichtown Green. By the mid-1700s, it evolved into a prosperous colonial seaport, Chelsea Landing. The town was fueled by the exchange of goods with the West Indies, including sugar, molasses, and rum. Today, Norwich is a thriving city with a vibrant population and a positive outlook for residential and business growth.

City Hall, Norwich Connecticut. Photo Credit John Phelan.

If you look at the front of our building above the columns you can still see the original Elks signage.

Elk Room

The Elk Room acknowledges the legacy of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE), a cherished fraternal organization deeply rooted in American history that once resided in this building. Founded in 1868, this group has been a beacon of community service, charity, and fellowship for over a century. As you enter The Elk Room, embrace the spirit of camaraderie and goodwill that defines the Elks.