The French Hotel and Bar

The French Hotel and Bar was owned at one time by Baptiste Borda and later leased to the Mitcheo family. After returning from World War II, Raymond Borda owned and operated the hotel for many years. During the 1930's, it was one of the three main Basque hotels in Gardnerville. In what is now the parking lot behind the building, a pilota court with a large fronton, or wall, once stood. Pilota is a traditional Basque handball game, and in the mid 1930's teams came from as far away as San Francisco to compete in championship tournaments there. Prize money of $1000 in 1930's value indicates the high caliber of play seen at this site.

Gardnerville, Nevada · United States