The Belmont Hotel was built in 1924 and is located on the Capitol Square in Madison. At twelve stories, this red brick building remains one of the tallest structures on the Square, and is significant both architecturally and historically.

The Belmont was built in a conservative Neo-Classical style, but what is most notable about this building is its height. At the time of its construction, the Belmont was planned to be the tallest building on the Square and Madison’s first true skyscraper—much to the chagrin of city planners who felt that tall structures surrounding the Capitol would diminish the grandeur of the government building and block the view of its dome.

The state legislature rushed to pass legislation to prevent the Belmont from being built up to its planned height, while the builders of the hotel hurried to finish the structure before such legislation could be passed. The law did not pass in time, and the Belmont was constructed to plan; however, the height-limit imposed by the law is still in effect for all new construction in a one-mile radius of the Capitol building.

The Belmont differed from other hotels being built in this time period in that it was intended to be a commercial, as opposed to luxury, hotel. Intended for middle-income business travelers, rooms were small and bathrooms were shared between adjoining rooms. Socializing, reading the paper, and eating meals were all done in the comfortably-appointed hotel lounge and the English-style dining room. A room at the Belmont was a place for sleeping and grooming only.

The YWCA bought and renovated the hotel in 1968, adding a twelfth floor swimming pool and gym facilities. They still occupy the building, offering shelter and job training for women, as well as advocating for race and gender equity.

This property is private. Please respect the rights and privacy of the owners and occupants.