The Oklahoma Publishing Co., whose assets include the historic The Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, Colorado, was sold on Thursday to The Anschutz Corporation, a Denver-based company owned by businessman Philip Anschutz. Details of the transaction remain private.
Management of The Broadmoor remains in the hands of President and CEO Steve Bartolin, and no changes are planned in management and staff, according to a statement from the hotel’s management.
Bartolin told HOTELS on Thursday, “It is all very, very good. We have been working on this for past three months. Mr. Anschutz is a great guy and will make terrific owner. This is only the second time since 1918 that hotel has changed hands, and the quality is in large part due to that continuity. The timing is right for this and the commitment from Mr. Anschutz is nothing short of phenomenal.”
Bartolin said the new ownership is committed for the long term and keeping the hotel as an independent property. “I have also been so impressed with his passion for The Broadmoor and his knowledge of our history, which gives me great hope for its future. This is a very positive event,” Bartolin added.
The Broadmoor opened its doors in 1918, founded by Spencer and Julie Penrose. Anschutz becomes only the third owner of the historic property that is the longest consecutive winner of the Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond awards for excellence.
Under the guidance of Edward Gaylord, The Oklahoma Publishing Co. purchased the controlling interest in The Broadmoor from El Pomar Foundation in 1988 and later acquired 100% ownership. When Gaylord passed away in 2002, his daughter, Christy, became the third member of the Gaylord family to lead OPUBCO.
Noting the storied history and importance of The Broadmoor, Anschutz said, “I am extremely pleased with my new affiliation with The Broadmoor. I look forward to working with Steve Bartolin and his team in carrying on The Broadmoor’s legacy of excellence and commitment to the Colorado Springs community.”