I was in Phoenix doing some photography and was taking some shots of buildings. I was unaware that this building was the tallest in Arizona. I figured a little research on it would be fun. Here is what I found.
The Westward was built in 1927-28 and opened on December 15, 1928, The original name was the “Roosevelt Hotel” but was changed due to financial complications , delayed construction, and shifting owners names. Famous developer Del Webb (of Arizona) would get their start on this project. Webb himself would expand the building, which was omitted from the official narratives.
When it opened in 1928 it’s as $2 a night when many other hotels were charging 25 cents, reinforcing its exclusive status but possibly deterring locals and creating its reputation for exclusion.
The hotel was the site of unexplained deaths, both accidental and suicides. Sadly, little was found in the verified records,
During its years as a hotel, the Westward was reputed to have hosted famous and controversial celebrities. Rumors included visitors like Marilyn Monroe, and gangsters like Al Capone. However, these stories aren’t verified as of this writing.
Paranormal claims have been mentioned. Residents and former staff members have attested to seeing ghosts, and a supposed “lady-in-red.” She was a one-legged ballerina, spectral children. strange noises, and flickering lights. This would fuel the building’s legacy as one of Phoenix’s most haunted locations.
After the hotel closed in 1980. It was transitioned to a federally subsidized facility for seniors and the disabled. This was done partly due to the years of dwindling occupancy and unreported financial difficulties.
Today, it is still primarily a residence for elderly and disabled tenants, strong security and privacy rules make it difficult for any curious or former guests to visit, and many residents are uncomfortable with outsiders discussing the building’s paranormal legacy.
Throughtful Reader 
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